977.353 

^''^^^      W.'^^.'ns  W   Co.    [^^  fMsWe^] 


LI  E)  R.AR.Y 

OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY 

or    ILLINOIS 


977.358 
W63 


a.j.j.  j-iiu- vi     iij-^ 


...x'.oal  Survey 


HISTOET 


OF 


DECATUR,  ILLINOIS, 


ITS 


EESOURCES,  ADVANTAGES  FOR  BUSINESS, 
AND  ATTRACTIONS    AS  A  HOME, 


WITH  A 


BRIEF  SKETCH  OF  ITS    MANUFACTORIES,    PROMINENT    BUSINESS  AND 

PROFESSIONAL  MEN.     ALSO,  A  COMPLETE  CLASSIFIED 

BUSINESS  DIRECTORY. 


COMPILED   AND   PUBLISHED  BY 
^A'■IGG1NS  &  CO.,    CLEVELAND,    OHIO. 


DECATUR,  ILLINOIS:  ftT  UREA^*•^■  ' 

1871. 


i  ' 


INTRODUCTORY. 


The  following  pages  are  presented  to  the  public,  for  two  rea- 
sons : 

First,  To  show  to  parties  not  already  acquainted  with  our  city 
and  surroundings,  but  who  contemplate  a  change  of  residence, 
and  may  be  seeking  a  good  location  for  manufacturing  or  busi- 
ness enterprise,  the  superior  advantages  which  this  city  presents. 

Second,  To  present  a  historical  sketch  of  the  city  and  its  sur 
roundings,  together  with  a  correct  and  complete  classilied  busi- 
ness directory.  "Wiggins  &  Co., 

Publishers. 


V5J 


HISTORY  OF  DECATUR. 


EARLY  HISTORY  AISTD  SETTLEMENT. 

By  C.  H.  Fuller,  Esq. 

"Macon  county  was  formed  out  of  territory  attached  to  Shelby 
county,  and  originally  included  within  its  limits  nearly  all  of  the 
counties  of  DeWitt,  Piatt  and  Moultrie,  and  was  created  by  an 
act  of  the  Legislature,  January  19,  1829.  John  Fleming,  Jesse 
Rhodes  and  Easton  Whitton  were  appointed  commissioners  to 
locate  the  county  seat,  which,  when  located,  was  to  be  called 
Decatur. 

"  The  first  County  Commissioners'  Court  was  held  at  the  house  of 
Jas.  Ward,  four  miles  south  of  this  city,  on  the  19th  of  May,  1829. 
Benjamin  Wilson,  Elisha  Freeman  and  James  Miller  composed 
the  court,  with  Daniel  McCall  as  clerk.  The  next  meeting  of  this 
Court  was  held  at  the  same  place  on  the  first  day  of  June,  1829. 
At  that  Court  the  following  order  was  passed :  '  Ordered  that 
J3.  R.  Austin,  County  Surveyor  for  the  county  of  Macon,  be  and 
he  is  hereby  required  to  lay  out  the  town  of  Decatur,  in  said 
county,  after  the  form  of  Shelbyville,'  &c.  The  Commissioners 
appointed  to  locate  the  county  seat  reported  at  this  meeting  that 
they  had  located  the  same  on  the  northeast  quarter  and  east  half 
of  section  fifteen,  township  sixteen,  two  east.  The  first  sale  of 
lots  was  on  the  10th  of  July,  1829. 

"  The  first  white'person  that  settled  in  the  county  was  William 
Downing,  who  located  on  the  south  side  of  Sangamon  river  in  the 
year  1820.  Two  years  later,  Leonard  Stevens  and  family  moved 
to  the  county  and  settled  about  three  miles  northwest  of  this  place, 
on  Stevens'  creek. 

"  The  first  house  erected  in  the  town  was  built  by  James  Ren- 
shaw,  on  lot  three,  block  three,  old  town ;  and  the  next  by  P.  D. 


^\'\Z'b  " 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


Williams,  on  the  lot  where  the  hardware  store  of  Close  &  Gris- 
wold  now  stands. 

"The  first  meeting  of  the  Trustees  of  the  town  of  Decatur  was 
held  on  the  fifth  day  of  November,  A.  D.  1836." 

THE  CITY  OF  DECATUR, 

The  county  seat  of  Macon  county,  is  situated  within  14  miles  of 
the  geographical  centre  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  and  has  a  popula- 
tion of  about  10,000  inhabitants. 

Its  present  railroad  facilities  are  not  surpassed  centrally  within 
the  State,  and  it  will,  when  railroads  now  under  contract  and  ac- 
tual building  are  completed,  rival  its  neighboring  city  of  Indian- 
apolis as  a  centre — the  iron  bands  of  which,  yearly  add  to  the 
welfare,  financially  and  socially,  of  its  people,  and  must,  as  a  nat- 
ural result,  so  prove  to  Decatur  — whose  rapid  growth  since  the 
first  railroad  touched  here  in  1854,  has  proven  in  the  result  now 
firmly  established,  with  a  successful  future  admitted  by  its  sister 
cities. 

No  city  in  the  west  is  more  healthy,  or  better  supplied  with 
water  for  domestic  and  manufacturing  purposes,  or  fire  protection. 
The  unlimited  liberality  and  public  spirit  of  its  citizens  in  the  sup- 
port of  schools,  churches  and  like  public  benefits,  speak  for  its 
people  the  elements  of  success  in  creating  and  perpetuating  the 
vital  growth  of  a  western  city,  educationally  and  mo^all3^  Com- 
mercially, the  health  in  markets  is  "A.  No.  1."  No  disastrous 
efiects  from  any  financial  storm,  or  the  wave  of  civil  war,  have 
made  lasting  impressions  upon  the  Court  Records  of  the  county. 
The  municipal  taxes  are,  by  comparison,  lighter  than  a  large  ma- 
jority of  western  cities,  never  having  exceeded  to  the  year  ISTl 
the  rate  of  one  per  cent,  on  an  assessed  value  of  about  66  per 
cent,  of  the  actual  value.  The  city  debt  is  $55,000,  payable  $20,- 
000  in  1879  and  $35,000  in  1891,  the  debt  being  created  for  per- 
manent improvements ;  a  portion  of  which  $35,000  must,  of  ne- 
cessity, become  almost  self-liquidating  at  maturity  in  the  revenue 
derived  therefrom,  viz:  Water  Works. 


^:ipi9 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


The  city  contains  about  40  miles  of  streets  and  60  miles  of 
side  walks.  Most  of  the  side-walking  being  made  of  wood,  re- 
quires for  present  some  yearly  expenditure  for  repairs,  and  to  meet 
the  increasing  demands  for  new  walks  on  the  newly  opened  streets, 
and  homes  made  thereon.  The  replacing  of  wooden  walks  is  in 
many  instances  made  of  stone,  which  becomes,  with  our  railroad 
facilities,  not  an  expensive  change,  when  durability  is  considered. 

The  pages  following  will  show  to  the  reader  (under  appropriate 
headings,)  the  various  resources,  business  and  advantages,  with 
statistics  interesting,  and  modestly  hoped  convincing,  as  to  why 
Decatur  must  become  a  large  commercial  and  manufacturing  cen- 
tre, and  which  you  are  respectfully  invited  to  peruse,  compare, 
judge  and  act  as  to  your  individual  pleasure  and  profit,  and  with 
views  to  an  addition  of  "•  live  elements"  essential  to  mutual  bene- 
fits in  the  "  cmning  and  being.'''' 


MUNICIPxVL  GOVERNMENT. 


BOARD  OF   TRUSTEES. 

1836.— Richard  Oglesby,  President.  Trustees:  Wm.  T.  Cris- 
sey,  G.  R.  White,  *Wm.  Webb,  Thomas  Cowan,  fll.  M.  Gorin, 
Henry  Butler,  Landy  Harrell.  fAndrew  Love,  Clerk ;  James 
Carter  and  Wm.  Webb,  Constables. 

1838. — fJoseph  Williams,  Henry  Snyder,  Presidents,  Trus- 
tees :  James  Renshaw,  James  F.  Montgomery,  George  R.  White, 
Henry  Prather.  Edmund  McClellan,  Clerk;  Richard  Oglesby, 
J.  P.  Hickcok,  Treasurer  ;  John  S.  Adamson,  Assessor ;  William 
Radcliff  and  Thomas  Cowan,  Supervisors ;  J,  H.  Elliott,  Consta. 
ble. 

1839.— Trustees :  WiUiam  T.  Crissey,  S.  B.  Dewees,  J.  M. 
Fordice,  ;}: James  F.  Montgomery. 


t  Resigned.  *  Died.  J  It  does  not  appear  from  the  record  that  these  last  named 
trustees  ever  met,  but  that  there  was  an  election  held  on  the  6th  day  of  May,  1839, 
under  a  special  act  incorporating  the  town  of  Decatur,  at  which  election  another 
board  was  chosen. 


^ 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


1839. — Kirby  Benedict,  President.  Trustees  :  John  S.  Adam- 
son,  Thomas  Cowan,  Samuel  B.  Dewees,  Jesse  H.  Elliott,  Wm. 
T.  Crissey,  Thomas  H.  Kead.  H.  M.  Gorin,  Clerk;  George  K. 
White,  Treasurer;  H.  Prather,  Assessor  and  Collector;  G.  W. 
Gilbrath,  Zebulon  Cantrall  and  William  Webb,  Constables. 

1840. — Joseph  King,  President.  Trustees:  Henry  Goodman, 
William  Cantrill,  B.  F.  Oglesby,  David  Wright,  John  G.  Speer, 
David  E.  Ralls.  H,  M.  Gorin,  Clerk  ;  G.  R.  White,  Treasurer  ; 
I.  C.  Pugh,  Collector ;  William  Webb,  Constable. 

:|:1841. — Thomas  P.  Rodgers,  President.  Trustees:  J.  H. 
Elliott,  D.  E.  Ralls,  G.  R.  White,  Henry  Goodman,  Benjamin  R. 
Austin,  J.  D.  Tait.  J.  S.  Post,  Clerk;  J.  H.  Read,  Treasurer; 
Joseph  Stevens,  Assessor  and  Collector ;  Wm.  Webb,  Constable. § 

18-46. — David  Krone,  President.  Trustees :  Elijah  Krone,  Jo- 
seph Kauifmau,  Michael  Elson,  Thomas  H.  Read.  E.  B.  Hale, 
Clerk ;  G.  A.  Smith,  Constable.§ 

1854. — William  Prather,  President.  Trustees:  William  J. 
Stamper,  William  S.  Crissey,  Joseph  King,  Thomas  H.  Wingate. 
B.  H.  Cassell,  Clerk. 

1854. — Thomas  H.  Wingate,  President.  Trustees  :  William  S. 
Crissey,  William  Martin,  Elias  Tanner,  John  Ricketts.  B.  H. 
Cassell,  Clerk;  H.  Churchman,  Constable. 

1855  — Thomas  H.  Wingate,  President.  Trustees  :  A.  L.  Kel- 
lar,  J.  R.  Gorin,  William  S.  Crissey,  William  Martin.  B.  H. 
Cassell,  Clerk. 

CITY    COUNCIL. 

*1856. — John  H.  Post,  Mayor.  Aldermen:  Frank  Priest,  1st 
Ward;  E.  O.  Smith,  2d  Ward ;  fJ-  R-  Gorin,  S.  P.  Ohr,  3d 
Ward  ;  J.  J.  Ballentine,  H.  Taylor,  4th  Ward.  C.  C.  Post,  Clerk 
and  Attorney. 

X  This  was  the  last  meeting  of  tlie  Trustees  of  the  town  of  Decatur  for  five  years. 

§  The  record  of  tlie  proceeding's  of  the  Town  Trustees  from  1846  to  January,  1854, 
are  lost,  consequently  there  is  no  means  of  ascertaining  who  the  Trustees  were 
during  that  period. 

*  An  election  was  held  for  city  officers,  under  a  special  charter,  on  the  7th  of 
January,  1856. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUB. 


1 857. — William  A.  Barnes,  Mayor.  Aldermen :  George  Good- 
man, Joseph  Mills,  1st  Ward ;  H.  B.  Durfee,  George  Dempsey, 
2d  Ward ;  A.  T.  Hill,  John  P;  Post,  3d  Ward  ;  Israel  B.  Gring, 
Geo.  Wessels,  4th  Ward.     J.  P.  Boyd,  Clerk  and  Attorney. 

1858. — James  Shoaff,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  Joseph  Mills,  J.  B. 
Trull,  Ist  Ward;  H.  B  Durtiee,  Isaac  D.  Jennings,  2d  Ward; 
John  P.  Post,  Samuel  F.  Greer,  3d  Ward ;  George  Wessels,  O. 
Powers,  4th  Ward.      S.  S.  Goode,  Clerk  and  Attorney. 

1859. — A.  T.  Hill,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  James  Simpson,  J.  L. 
Mansfield,  1st  Ward ;  John  W.  Bear,  M.  Hayworth,  2d  Ward; 
Samuel  F.  Greer,  William  Lintner,  3d  Ward  ;  O.  Powers,  J.  C. 
Benton,  4th  ward.     S.  S.  Goode,  Clerk  and  Attorney. 

I860. — Sheridan  Wait,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  James  Simpson, 
S.  S.  Hale,  1st  Ward  ;  E.  McNabb,  William  J.  Scanlan,  2d  Ward  ; 
William  Lintner,  Peter  M.  Wykoff,  3d  Ward  ;  J.  C.  Benton, 
John  L.  Peake,  dth  Ward.     J.  P.  Gorin,  Clerk  and  Attorney. 

1861. — E.  O.  Smith,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  F.  Priest,  long  term, 
Chas.  A.  Tuttle,  short  term,  1st  Ward ;  James  Millikin,  Wm,  J. 
Scanlan,  2d  Ward ;  fW  H.  Bramble,  P.  M.  Wykoff,  3d  Ward  ; 
Joel  C.  Benton,  long  term,  Wm.  A.  Barnes,  short  term,  4th  Ward. 
J.  R.  Gorin,  Clerk  and  Attorney. 

1862.— Thomas  O.  Smith,  Mayor.  Aldermen :  F.  Priest,  D. 
H.  Elwood,  1st  Ward ;  James  Millikin,  Lowber  Burrows,  2d 
Ward  ;  Henry  Goodman,  W.  H.  Bramble,  3d  Ward ;  Joel  C. 
Benton,  Bensel  Henkle,  4th  Ward.  J.  R.  Gorin,  Clerk  and  At- 
torney. 

1863. — J.  J.  Peddecord,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  D.  H.  Elwood, 
David  S.  Hughes,  1st  Ward  ;  James  Millikin,  Lowber  Burrows, 
2d  Ward  ;  Wm.  H.  Bramble,  Henry  Goodman,  3d  Ward  ;  John 
Ullerich,  Benson  Henkle,  4th  Ward.  J.  R.  Gorin,  Clerk  and  At- 
torney. 

1864. — J.  J.  Peddecord,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  C.  A.  Tuttle,  D. 
L.  Hughes,  1st  Ward  ;  M.  Y.  Givler,  James  Millikin,  2d  Ward ; 
M.  Fostmeyer,  J.  G.  Starr,  3d  Ward ;  Benson  Henkle,  long  term, 
T.  B.  Albert,  short  term,  4th  Ward.  K.  H.  Roby,  Clerk  and 
Attorney. 


6  HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


1865.— Franklin  Priest,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  Charles  A.  Tut- 
tle,  Charles  H.  Fuller,  1st  Ward  ;  M.  Y.  Givler,  Wm.  J.  Usrey, 
2d  Ward  ;  M.  Fustmeyer,  E.  A. ,  Barnwell,  3d  Ward ;  fBenson 
Henkle,  S.  T.  Trowbridge,  4:th  Ward.  K.  II.  Roby,  Clerk  and 
Attorney. 

1866. — Franklin  Priest,  Mayor.     Aldermen  :  fCharles  II.  Ful 
ler,  S.  F.  Hawley,  1st  Ward  ;  W.  J.  Usrey,  E.  McNabb,  2d  Ward ; 
E.  A.  Barnwell,  M.  Fostmeyer,  3d  Ward  ;  G.  Howell,  short  term, 
H.    Mailer,    long   term,   4th  Ward,     f  A.  B.  Bann,  Clerk   and 
Attorney. 

1867. — John  K.  Warren,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  f  S.  F.  Hawley, 
Joseph  Mills,  1st  Ward ;  E.  Mc^N^abb,  2d  Ward  ;  M.  Fostmeyer, 
J.  P.  Gorin,  3d  Ward  ;  II.  Muller,  B.  F.  Dodson,  4th  Ward.  '  C. 
H.  Fuller,  Register. 

1868. — Isaac  C.  Pugh,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  D.  P.  Elwood,  Jo- 
seph Mills,  1st  Ward;  L.  L,  Haworth,  S.  Burrows,  2d  Ward;  M. 
Forstmeyer,  J.  R.  Gorin,  3d  Ward ;  B.  F.  Dodson,  11.  Prather, 
4th  Ward.     C.  H.  Fuller,  Register. 

1869. — Wm.  L.  Hammer,  Mayor.  Aldermen  :  D.  P.  Elwood, 
D.  S.  Shellabarger,  1st  Ward  ;  L.  L.  Haworth,  J.  L.  Libby,  2d 
Ward ;  M.  Fostmeyer,  G.  S.  Simpson,  3d  Ward ;  II.  Prather, 
W.  F.  Busher,  4th  Ward.     C.  H.  Fuller,  Register. 

1870.— F.  Priest,  Mayor.  Aldermen :  fE.  M.  Misner,  D.  S. 
Shellabarger,  1st  Ward;  Benj.  Dill,  *E.  McNabb,  2d  Ward  ;  G. 
S.  Simpson,  M.  Forstmeyer,  3d  Ward ;  W.  F.  Busher,  E.  Harps- 
trite,  4th  Ward.     C.  H.  Fuller,  Register. 

1871. — E.  M.  Misner,  Mayor.  Aldermen:  Joseph  Mills, 
*Wm.  J.  Myers,  1st  Ward;  Benj.  Dill,  E.  McNabb,  2d  Ward; 
M.  Fostmeyer,  Wm.  II.  Bramble,  3d  Ward ;  E.  Harpstrite,  Wm. 
Gabler,  4th  Ward.     C.  II.  Fuller,  Register. 


t  Resigned.        *  To  fill  vacancy. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  7 


RAILROADS. 

By  F.  N.  Ewing,  Esq. 

A  full  history  of  the  various  raih'oads  passing  through,  or  term- 
inating at  Decatur,  would  .require  more  space  than  could  be 
allowed  in  a  work  of  the  nature  of  this,  and  more  time  and  pa- 
tience than  the  general  reader  ought  to  be  supposed  to  possess. 
This  article  will  be  confined  to  the  few  main  points  which  will 
be  of  use  in  giving  to  the  public  a  bird's  eye  view  of  the  origin, 
progress,  and  present  state  of  the  railroad  facilities  of  this  place, 
with  a  fair  statement  of  the  probable  completion  of  roads  in  the 
future. 

THE  ILLINOIS  CENTRAL  RAILROAD. 

A  company  was  chartered  in  1836,  to  construct  a  road  over 
nearly  the  same  route  now  occupied  by  this  road,  and  the  route 
was  surveyed ;  but  the  project  failed  at  that  time  for  the  want  of 
means. 

An  act  of  Congress,  granting  lands  to  the  State  ot  Illinois,  for 
the  purpose  of  aiding  in  the  construction  of  a  great  railroad, 
with  a  branch,  through  the  central  part  of  the  State,  was  ap 
proved  Sept.  20th,  1850.  The  Illinois  Central  Railroad  Com- 
pany was  incorporated  by  the  Legislature  of  this  State  in  1851  ; 
and  the  lands  granted  by  Congress  were  conveyed  to  the  Com- 
pany as  soon  as  they  had  complied  with  the  conditions  of  the 
charter.  In  a  few  years  the  entire  road  was  finished  and  in  full 
operation  from  Cairo,  at  the  junction  of  the  Ohio  and  Mississippi 
rivers,  to  Dunleith,  on  the  latter  river,  a  distance  of  four  hundred 
and  fifty-six  miles ;  and  the  branch  from  Centralia  to  Chicago 
two  hundred  and  fifty-three  miles. 

This  road,  by  the  facilities  afibrded  for  travel  and  transporta- 
tion of  produce,  gave  an  impulse  to  improvements  that  are  mar- 
velous to  all,  who  saw  the  country  twenty  years  ago,  and  see  it 
now.  Then,  there  were  wild  wastes  of  prairie  as  far  as  the  eye 
could  reach,  without  a  sign  of  human  life,  where  now  every  acre 
of  land  is  under  cultivation,  and  clothed  over  with  towns  and 
cities.     But  while  the  credit,. in  a  large   measure,  of  developino- 


8  HISTORY    OF    DECATUE. 


the  resources  of  the  central  portion  of  the  State,  is  due  to  this 
road,  other  roads  followed,  which  afforded  outlets  in  other  direc- 
tions. 

THE  TOLEDO,  WABASH  AND  WESTERN  RAILWAY. 

The  Great  Western  Railroad  was  chartered  in  1853  ;  and  after 
several  amendments  and  consolidations,  was  finished  and  in  good 
working  order,  under  its  present  name,  viz :  Toledo,  Wabash 
and  Western  Eailway,  from  Toledo,  on  Lake  Erie,  to  Quincy,  on 
the  Mississippi,  a  distance  of  four  hundred  and  seventy-six  miles. 
This  road,  which  crosses  the  Illinois  Central  Railroad  at  Decatur, 
nearly  at  right  angles,  passes  through  the  finest  portions  of  this 
State  and  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  into  the  State  of  Ohio,  and 
touching  Iowa  at  Keokuk.  Beside  the  great  facilities  for  travel 
and  trade  by  means  of  this  road.  East  and  West,  it  brings  to  our 
door  the  fine  timber,  coal,  and  stone  with  which  the  States  east  of 
us  abound,  and  is  rapidly  developing  the  rich  coal  fields,  over 
which  the  road  passes  in  this  State.  So  much  is  the  benefit  in 
this  regards  felt,  that  wood  is  cheaper  to-day  in  Decatur,  M^ith  a 
demand  more  than  doubled,  than  it  was  a  few  years  ago.  And 
there  are  large  manufactories  of  agricultural  implements,  furni- 
ture and  iron,  here,  which  could  not  exist  Avithout  this  road. 

MILES. 

The  Main  Line  is 476 

St.  Louis  Division  (from  Decatur  to  St.  Louis) 106 

Keokuk  Branch ^3 

Hannibal  Branch 50 

Pekin  Branch  (from  Decatur  to   Pckin) 65 

Pittsfield   Branch 6 

Moberly  Branch  (in  Missouri) . .    68 

Total 814 

Of  these  814  miles  there  are  in  Illinois  : 

MILES. 

Main  Line 226 

St.  Louis  Branch 106 

Pekin  Branch 65 

Keokuk  Branch 43 

Hannibal  Branch 50 

Pittstield  Branch 6 

Total  in  Illinois 496 

THE  DECATUR  AND  EAST  ST.  LOUIS  RAILROAD 

Was  chartered  in  1S(>7,  and  soon  afterwards  put  under  contract 
and  pushed  to  completion  to  the  bank  of  the  Mississippi  River, 
opposite  the  city  of  St.  Louis,  a  distance  from  Decatur  of  one 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR, 


hundred  and  eight  miles.  By  means  of  one  of  the  most  mag- 
nilicent  bridges  in  the  world,  now  building,  the  trains  will  pass 
over  into  the  city.  This  road  is  said,  by  persons  accustomed  to 
traveling,  to  be  one  of  the  finest  roads  in  the  country,  and  one  of 
the  most  pleasant  to  ride  on.  It  is  under  the  control  of  the 
Toledo,  Wabash  and  Western  Railway  Company,  and  is  run  in 
connection  with  that  road. 

The  next  road  which  I  shall  notice  is 

THE  DECATUR  AND  STATE  LINE  RAILROAD, 

because  this  road  forms  a  continnation  of  the  Decatur  and  East 
St.  Louis  road  in  an  almost  perfectly  air-line  route  between  St. 
Louis  and  Chicago,  passing  through  Decatur,  near  the  middle, 
and  will  be  shorter  by  twenty-seven  miles,  than  any  other  route 
between  those  cities.  Twenty-five  miles  of  the  road  are  under 
contract,  and  there  is  every  reason  to  believe  the  whole  road  will 
soon  be  under  contract,  and  finished  during  the  year  1872;  so 
that  in  twelve  months  .trains  will  run  through  from  St.  Louis,  on 
the  Mississippi,  to  Chicago,  on  Lake  Michigan,  without  delay  or 
change. 

THE    PEKIN,    LINCOLN    AND    DECATUR    RAILROAD, 

which  connects  this  place  with  the  Illinois  river  at  Pekin,  in 
chronological  order,  comes  before  the  last  mentioned  road ;  for 
it  is  now  so  near  completion  that  the  cars  will  be  running  the 
whole  length  of  the  road,  which  is  sixty-seven  miles,  in  less  than 
thirty  days  from  this  time,  the  27th  of  September.  The  work  is 
all  done,  except  a  few  miles  on  the  prairie  north-west  of  Stephens' 
creek. 

THE    DECATUR,  MONTICELLO    AND    CHAMPAIGN    RAILROAD 

was  incorporated  a  few  years  ago,  and  part  of  the  grading  done  ; 
but  work  ceased  for  want  of  means.  Arran2;eraents  are  now 
being  made  by  some  gentlemen  to  finish  the  road  in  a  short  time  ; 
and  thus  give  Decatur  another  route  to  Chicago  by  way  of 
Champaign,  there  connecting  with  the  branch  of  the  Illinois 
Central. 

THE    DECATUR    AND    MATTOON    RAILROAD 

was  chartered  in  1861  ;  but  owing  to  the   civil  war  nothing  was 
2 


10  IlISTOEY    OF    DECA.TUR, 


done  towards  building  the  road  till  a  little  over  a  year  ago;  when 
it  was  takc-n  hold  of  by  pai-ties  who  arc  rapidly  pushing  it  to  com- 
pletion. The  grading  is  all  done  from  Mattoon  to  a  iH)int  within 
about  twenty  miles  of  Decatur ;  and  the  ties  and  iron  down. 
This  road  is  a  continuation  of  the  Mattoon  and  Grayvillc  road, 
which  will  be  extended  to  the  Ohio  river  at  Evansville.  The 
route  will  run  through  a  line  ])rairic  country  in  this  State,  and 
a  splendid  timber  conntrj'  in  Indiana;  and  bring  this  city,  by 
another  line,  into  direct  connection  with  the  trade  of  the  south- 
east and  south. 

DECATUR    AND    PARIS    RAILROAD, 

which  will  connect  with  the  St.  Louis,  Alton  and  Terre  Haute 
railroad,  is  finished,  and  the  cars  are  running  more  than  half  the 
distance  from  Paris  to  this  place,  and  will  be  pushed  to  comple- 
tion in  a  short  time. 

INDIANA   AND    ILLINOIS    CENTRAL    RAILROAD. 

This  road,  which  is  to  be  an  air-line  route  from  Decatur  to  In- 
dianapolis, was  begun  a  number  of  years  ago,  but  on  accouut  of 
counter  influences,  the  work  was  interrupted  from  time  to  time. 
Arrangements  are  now  about  completed,  by  which  it  is  confident- 
ly expected  the  road  will  be  finished  in  the  course  of  the  next 
year.  This  road  is  of  no  less  interest  to  Decatur  than  any  other 
road,  either  passing  through  ortei'ininatinghere.  For,  beside  the 
connection  it  gives  this  place  with  all  the  roads  leading  from  that 
groat  railroad  centre,  north,  east  and  south,  it  passes  through 
some  of  the  finest  timber  in  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  over  beds 
of  the  finest  coal  in  the  western  country,  and  through  immense 
bodies  of  as  fine  building  stone  as  there  is  in  the  world. 

PEORIA,  ATLANTA  AND  DECATUR  RAILROAD. 

The  act  of  incorporation  says,  "this  road  shall  be  run  by  a 
south-easterly  direction  to  the  town  of  Atlanta,  and  thence  in  the 
same  direction  to  Decatur."  Some  work  has  been  done  on  the 
road,  and  the  president  pi'oinises  its  completion  at  an  early   day. 

Thus  it  will  be  seen  that  Decatur,  which  is  near  the  geograph- 
ical centre  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  is,  by  the  four  railroads  now 
flnished,  and  the  five   or   six,  which  will  be  finished  during  the 


niSTORY    OF    DECATUR.  11 

year  1872,  brought  into  direct  connection  with  all  the  great  mar- 
kets of  the  United  States.  By  the  Illinois  Central  connecting  at 
Mendota  with  the  C,  B.  &  Q.  Road,  and  by  the  Decatur  and 
State  Line  Railroad  direct,  it  is  connected  with  Chicago;  thence 
by  the  great  line  of  lakes  with  the  north  and  cast.  And  by  the 
same  road  terminating  at  Cairo,  there  is  a  dii-ect  route  to  New 
Orleans,  both  by  rail  and  river;  and  northward  to  Dubuque  with 
the  great  North-western  and  Paciiic  routes  of  travel.  By  the 
Toledo,  Wabash  and  Western  Railway,  running  east  and  west, 
and  East  St.  Louis  Road  running  southwest,  and  the  Pekin  and 
Decatur  Road  running  northwest,  we  have  connections  through 
St.  Louis,  Quincy,  Keokuk  and  Pekin  with  the  great  routes  of 
river  and  rail  travel  south,  southwest,  west  and  northwest;  and 
thus  by  more  direct  routes  reaching  the  Pacific  Ocean.  And  by 
way  of  the  Toledo,  Wabash  and  AVestern  Road,  the  Lidiana  and 
Illinois  Central  Road,  the  Decatur  and  Mattoon,  extended  through 
Grayville  to  the  Ohio  river,  Decatur  has  easy  and  direct  routes 
of  travel  and  transportation  through  Indianapolis,  Evansville  and 
Louisville,  K3'.,  east,  southeast  and  south. 


AGRICULTURAL  RESOURCES. 

Bv  Dr.  H.  C.  Johns. 
Tliis  county  contains  580  square  miles  of  territory,  lying  im- 
mediately south  of  the  fortieth  parallel  of  latitude,  and  is, 
geographically,  the  centre  county  of  the  State.  It  is  also  the 
centre  of  the  great  corn  and  grass  belt  of  Illinois.  The  surface 
is  generally  level,  but  sufficiently  undulating  for  all  the  purposes 
of  drainage,  without  extensive  artificial  means.  The  Sangamon 
river  passes  through  the  county  from  northeast  to  southwest,  with 
a  belt  of  timber  from  three  to  five  miles  Avide.  Several  small 
streams,  from  the  northern  and  southern  border  of  the  county, 
empty  into  the  Sangamon,  making,  altogether,  a  better  supply  and 
better  distribution  of  Avater  and  timber  than  any  other  of  the 
prairie     counties    of    the  State.     A    description    of    the    soil, 


12  HISTORY    OF    DECATUK. 


however  elaborate,  would  couvey  but  a  limited  idea  of  its  pro- 
ductive capacity,  without  mentioning  somewhat  in  detail  the 
quantities  of  the  crops  produced.  To  say  that  it  is  a  rich, 
black  loam,  containing  sand  and  lime,  with  a  sub-strata  of  rich,  yel- 
low, porous  clay,  is  but  repeating  what  is  said  of  most  alluvial  soils. 
The  crops  successfully  grown,  with  the  average  yield  per  acre,  will 
enable  those  unacquainted  with  the  locality  to  properly  estimate 
its  agricultural  resources. 

Corn  is  the  grand  staple  of  the  prairie  lands  of  tlie  West,  and, 
in  this  county,  is  one  of  the  peculiar  successes  of  the  farmer.  An 
average  of  hfty  bushels  to  the  acre  is  the  rule  for  all  well  cultiva- 
ted fields.  Equal  in  importance  to  the  corn  crop  is  the  grass 
crop.  Two  important  varieties  are  indigenous  to  the  soil,  viz : 
blue  grass  and  white  clover.  The  other  varieties,  red  clover,  tim- 
othy, red  top,  must  be  sown,  but  all  yield  abundantly,  and  are 
an  important  element  of  the  wealth  of  the  county. 

Wheat  is  one  of  the  staples  of  this  county.  The  climate  is  such 
that  both  the  fall  and  spring  varieties  may  be  successfully  raised, 
and  results  entirely  satisfactory  to  the  husbandman  are  annually 
realized  from  this  crop.  What  is  said  of  wheat,  may  be  truly  said 
of  rye,  barley,  oats  and  buckwheat.  In  addition  to  the  consump- 
tion of  these  grains,  they  make  an  important  part  of  the  export 
trade  of  this  county.  Hemp  and  flax  are  as  natural  to  the  soil  as 
corn  and  grass,  and  yield  the  farmer  a  fair  return  for  the  labor 
bestowed. 

This  county  is  not  surpassed  by  any  in  the  State  as  a  fruit 
growing  region.  Apples  are  produced  in  great  abundance  and 
perfection,  with  an  occasional  crop  of  peaches.  The  small  fruits, 
grapes,  cherries,  strawberries,  gooseberries,  blackberries,  raspber- 
ries and  currants,  are  hardy,  and  yield  as  much  per  acre  as  any 
other  county  in  the  State.  Potatoes,  turnips,  cabbage,  sweet  po- 
tatoes and  melons,  are  grown  in  great  perfection  in  all  parts  of 
the  county.  The  ^^ipllowing  may  be  stated  as  the  average  yield 
per  acre  of  the  crops  that  are  annually  produced  in  the  native  soil 
without  the  use  of  manures  : 

Bushels  per  acre. 

Corn 50 

Wheat 30 

Rye 25 

Oats 50 

Barley 40 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  13 


Buck  when  t 50 

Flaxseed ". 10 

Potatoes 150 

Turnip- 250 

Onion> 100 

Hay One  and  a  half  tons. 

The,  artificial  manures  of  commerce  have  not  been  used. 
Where  barnyard  manure  has  been  tried  double  the  above  crops 
have  been  realized.  Fertilizing  the  soil  will  be  left  to  future  gen- 
erations, as  many  fields  in  this  county  have  been  cultivated  for 
forty  years  witJiout  materially  diminishing  its  productive  capacity. 
The  combiiuition  of  level  surface,  soil,  climate,  timber,  M^ater, 
variety  of  products,  ease  of  culture,  abundant  yield  of  crops,  and 
general  adaptation  to  the  wants  of  man,  makes  the  county  a  rich 
and  desirable  inheritance  for  an  industrious  and  enterprising 
people. 


COMMERCE  AND  MAJSUFACTURES. 

Bv  H.  B.  DuRFEE,  Esq. 

The  commerce  of  this  city  is  mainly  based  upon  her  manufacto- 
ries. Take  away  the  flouring  mills,  rolling  mill,  oil  mill,  pump  fac- 
tory, furniture  factories,  engine  factory,  boiler  factory,  implement 
factories,  foundries,  machine  shops,  planing  mills,  wagon  and  car- 
riage factories,  &c.,  &c.,  and  the  conmierce  of  Decatur  would  be 
eveii  less  than  when  but  a  few  years  ago,  one  yoke  of  oxen  did  the 
switching  of  the  two  great  railroads  then  passing  through  oui 
city  from  the  four  cardinal  points  of  the  compass.  And  but  for 
the  manufacturing  establishments  that  have  sprung  up  in  the  past 
few  years,  that  same  yoke  of  oxen  might  still  be  lazily  wandering 
amid  the  few  cars  onr  commerce  would  demand.  But  our  work 
shops  have  changed  all  this,  and  at  the  present  time,  two  good  lo- 
comotives find  constant  employment  in  distributing  loaded  cars, 
and  cars  to  be  loaded,  to  the  various  workshops  and  manufactur- 
ing establishments,  and  making  up  trains  that  are  almost  hourly 
leaving  our  depot.  And  while  the  ever  rumbling  train-",  and  the 
shrill  w^histle  of  the  locomotives  are  constant  reminders  of  the  ac- 


14  HISTOKY    OF    DECATUR. 


tive  commercial  and  manufacturing  iutcrests  of  our  city,  yet  in 
all  these  things  we  are  but  in  onr  infancy. 

To  utilize  the  increased  facilities  for  mannfacturins:  and  com- 
mercial  intercourse  about  to  be  afforded  by  the  numerous  lines  of 
railroads  now  being  constructed  to  this  point,  our  citizens  are  dis- 
posed to  contribute  liberally  toward  the  best  interest  of  the  com- 
munity by  encouraging  manufacturing  industry. 

Capital,  well  managed  in  inanufactiu'ing  any  of  the  various 
articles  of  necessity,  or  even  luxury,  cannot  fail  to  find  a  remun- 
erative market  in  the  rich  country  to  the  south  of  us,  to  the  north 
of  us,  to  the  east  of  us,  to  the  west  of  us 

The  more  extensive  and  varied  our  manufactures,  the  more  im- 
portant do  we  become  as  a  commercial  centre.  The  increase  of 
capital  in  our  manufacturing  interests,  will  continue  to  attract 
the  mechanic  and  laborer,  and  at  the  same  time  fix  the 
attention  of  capitalists,  who  are  always  quick  to  appreciate  the 
advantages  of  a  prosperous  community.  We  have  but  to  beti'ue 
to  ourselves,  and  we  cannot  fail  to  realize  immense  advantages 
from  the  several  new  railroads  which  w411  be  completed  to  our  citj'^ 
within  the  next  few  montlis. 


CHEAP  HOMES  ATs^D  DISTRIBUTIVE  CENTRE. 

Bv  J.  K.  "Waekex,  Esq. 

The  price  of  land  for  all  purposes,  in  and  around  Decatur,  has 
been,  and  is,  held  at  very  moderate  figures,  considering  all  thu 
advantages  of  the  place. 

Buildiuir  lots,  within  easv  distance  of  the  business  centre,  beinir 
procurable  at  reasonable  prices  and  on  easy  terms,  has  induced 
nearly  every  comer  to  purchase,  improve  and  make  a  home  of  his 
own,  and  tiiereby  realize  the  comfort,  as  well  as  tlie  poetry,  of 
resting  under  the  shadow  of  his  own  vine  and  roof-tree.  Thus  it 
is,  that  for  a  town  of  nearly  ten  thousand  people,  Decatur  has 
very  little  dwelling  property  held  subject  to  rent.  Consequently, 
the  character  of  the  inhabitants  is  of  a  much  higher  order  than  if 
it  had  more  of  a  floating  population. 


UISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  15 


The  inaivclons  rapidity  with  wliicli  new  i-ailroads  Lave  been 
projected  and  put  under  constrnction  in  the  past  few  j-cars  tln-ongli- 
out  the  country,  but  especially  in  the  west,  is  such  tliat  the  term 
"Railroad  Centre"  has  become  so  hackneyed,  tliat  but  little  at- 
tention is  now  paid  to  the  claim  that  is  appropriated  by  so  many 
aspiring  villages  securing  a  few  lines  of  railroads. 

But  amid  the  Avonderful  net-work  of  iron  that  is  to  form  the 
means  of  connnunication,  ti'ansportation  and  travel  over  this  great 
country,  but  few  points  Avill  really  be  able  to  claim  equality  with 
Decatur  as  a  centre.  Having  now  six  lines  completed,  and  six 
more  under  construction,  making  twelve  lines  radiating,  as  spokes 
from  a  hub,  to  all  points  of  the  compass,  Decatur,  prospectively, 
can  well  claim  to  be  considered  of  no  less  importance  as  a  ''  dis- 
tributive point"  than  Indianapolis,  St.  Louis  or  Chicago. 


BUILDING  MATERIALS. 

By  Mills  &  IIakry,  Builders. 
BRICK,  SAND,  STONE,  LIME    AND    LUMBER. 

In  the  matei-ials  above  named,  Decatur  can  claim  as  a  chiefs 
the  excellence  in  brick.  Within  easy  distance  of  delivery,  of 
manufactured  material,  clay  banks  abound,  and  labor  and  skill  in 
the  making,  provide  an  abundance  of  substantial  building  material 
of  that  class,  of  superior  quality. 

Sand  of  good  quality,  and  easily  obtamed,  is  found  on  the 
banks  of  the  Sangamon  river,  and  elsewhere,  and  in  inexhaust- 
able  quantities. 

Stone  is  not  of  a  natural  deposit  near  the  city,  and  wants  are 
supplied  by  means  of  railroads. 

Lime.  The  result  of  Lime  Stone,  necessarily  is  not  obtained 
except  by  simil-ir  facilities. 

Lumber  is  in  abundance,  of  hard  wood  qualities,  at  the  rate  of 
$20  to  $25  per  M.  delivered. 

The  materials  not  naturally  products,  are  supplied  by  railroads, 
and  cars   loaded  at   Michigan    Pineries    and    Indiana    Timber 


16  HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


Regions  convey  their  cargo  direct  to  Decatur  without  breaking 
hulk.  The  supply  ot  stone  and  lime  at  quarries  and  kilns  within 
the  State  and  adjacent  thereto,  by  like  facilities  of  railroads, 
is  fully  equal  to  any  demand ;  and  while  the  immediate  vi- 
cinity of  Decatur  is  not  enriched  by  natural  products  of  soft 
wood,,  lumber,  stone  and  lime,  yet  with  cheap  transportation 
and  a  healthy  competition  purifying  in  its  results  in  that  direction, 
building  in  the  aggregate,  taking  into  consideration  all  material 
entering  into  the  same,  is,  and  can  be  done  in  Decatur  at  as  low 
figures  as  cities  more  closely  situated  and  having  that  local  build- 
ing advantage  in  all  classes  of  material  not  fully  supplied  here. 

To  the  person  of  ample  purse,  it  makes  but  small  difference 
when  taste  is  gratified  by  sight  and  ease  in  domicile ;  but  to  the 
young  professional  man  or  mechanic  of  moderate  means,  starting 
in  life,  and  seeking  a  home  in  a  live  western  town,  it  means 
dollars  and  cents,  earned  hy  toil^  and  to  be  expended  in  the  com- 
forts of  a  home ;  and  when  it  be  said  that  because  Decatur  has 
not  ALL  advantages  in  building  material  at  hand,  that  it  neces- 
sarily must  be  an  expensive  place  to  build  in,  the  proof  will  not 
justify  the  conclusion.  Practical  results  settle  the  matter;  and 
from  carefully  compared  estimates  of  buildings  erected  of  simi- 
lar character  in  Decatur  and  elsewhere,  Decatur  cost  is  not  in 
advance  of  sister  towns  and  cities. 

It  is  not  in  the  province  of  this  article  to  represent  ''  Build'mg 
MateriaV  as  present,  when  not  existing,  but  to  clearly  set  forth 
what  the  individual  locating  and  building  nioAj  dej^end  on,  and 
thereby  dispense  his  means  in  building  a  '■''home,''''  that  great  de- 
sideratum of  all,  according  to  his  taste  and  purse  as  advantageous- 
ly pecuniarily,  here  as  elsewhere,  in  central  localities. 


GENERAL  WATER  SUPPLY. 

By  C.  H.  Fuller. 

The    Sangamon  River   running   from   a    northeast  direction, 

passes   a  point  due  east   from   northeast   corner  of  city,  on  a  line 

runnins  southwest,  about   three  miles  distant.       A  short  distance 

south  and  east  of  corporate  limits  it  bears   by   a  graceful    bend 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  17 

almost  due  west,  and  passes  a  point  south  of  centre  of  city,  about 
one  mile  distant,  when  it  bends  gently   to   the   northwest,  thus 
almost  encircling  the  city  at  no  point  in  distance  exceeding  three 
miles,  and  reduced  on  south  side  of  the  city  to  about  one  mile. 
At  the  nearest  practicable  point  near  river  above  and   east  of 
natural  city  sewerage  deposit,  the  city  has  located   the  pumping 
house,  engines,    etc.,  to  which  from    the  river  by  means  of  con- 
duit pipe  16  inches  diameter,  is  lead  to  a  pumping  well,  and  from 
thence  lifted  and  forced  through  iron  mains  12,  8,  6  and  4  inches 
internal  diameter,  through  the  central   portion  of  the  city,  and 
hence  to  Railroad  Crossings,  Rolling  Mills,  etc.    Street  hydrants 
are  placed  at  given  points  for  fire  protection.       Domestic   and 
manufacturing  supply  is  made  by   tapping  mains  whenever  de- 
sired.    The  water  is  lifted  and  forced  through  mains,  by  means 
of  stationery  engines  at  pumping  works,  with  sufiicient  power  to 
answer  all  purposes,  especially  so  for  fire  protection,  by  a  direct 
connection  at  hydrants  with  hose,  thus  obviating  any  necessity 
for  steam  or  hand  fire  engines,  and  saving  yearly  a  large  expense 
thereby,  and  rendering  every  hydrant  an  engine  wherever  located^ 
when  connected  with  hose  and  pipe. 

The  city  has  expended  in  pipes,  engines,  etc.,  (already  in 
operation)  about  15,000  dollars,  and  the  contract  to  complete 
at  river  35,000  dollars,  making  a  total  of  50,000  dollars,  which 
machinery  is  capable  of  lifting  and  forcing  (if  required)  one 
million  gallons  of  water  every  21  hours,  sufficient  in  its  capac- 
ity to  furnish  a  population  of  forty  thousand  inhabitants  with 
water  for  all  purposes  required.  The  Sangamon  River  water, 
except  at  its  extreme  low  stages,  is  soft,  and  not  impregnated 
with  lime  deposit  of  any  importance  to  make  it  objection- 
able, but  preferable  for  steam  or  manu  facturing  purposes.  For 
domestic  or  culinary  purposes  it  is  not  anticipated  to  be  preferred 
by  all,  to  good  limestone  water  procured  from  wells,  of  which 
there  is  an  abundant  supply,  and  easily  obtained  by  digging  from 
25  to  40  feet ;  but  for  general  use,  viz  ;  fire  protection,  manufac- 
turing purposes,  sanitary  purposes,  fountains,  hotels,  livery 
stables,  etc.,  it  meets  all  possible  demands,  and  is  in  its  effect  and 
advantages  equal  to  a  stream  of  living  water  quietly  pursuing  its 
way  through  the  streets  of  the  city,  with  the  advantage  of  not 
being  made  a  recepticle  for  street  and  vault  washing,  the  natural 


18  HISTOEY    OF   DECATUR. 


reservoir  of  a  city's  uncleanliness,  as  the  sequal   proved  bj  Chi- 
cago river  coursing  its  streets  until  otherwise  diverted. 

This  important  item  of  water  supply  to  a  city,  especially  so  to 
all  manufacturing  and  railroad  interests,  puts  Decatur  on  an  equal 
footing  with  inland  river  cities  as  to  water  demand  and  supply, 
being  fully  equal  to  any  and  all  requisition  in  the  natural  growth 
of  the  city.  It  is  carefully  estimated  that  an  additional  expendi- 
ture of  $50,000  would  so  place  water  through  the  streets  within 
the  city,  as  to  protect  with  2000  feet  of  hose,  every  domicile 
within  the  corporate  limits  from  fire,  and  admit  of  its  daily  use 
by  a  population  of  30,000  people. 

The  works  now  under  contract  are  to  be  in  successful  operation 
by  the  1st  day  of  November,  1871,  but  will  undoubtedly  in  pres- 
ent forwardness  of  work,  be  anticipated  in  time.  With  this 
artificial  means  of  a  Water  Supply,  direct  from  a  fountain  at  all 
times  equal  to  demand,  the  citizens  of  Decatur  rest  content,  so 
far  as  its  uses  are  required,  and  with  justifiable  pride  point  out 
this  permanent  improvement  as  one  worthy  of  its  cost,  and  bene- 
ficial to  all  without  exception,  and  especially  so  to  manufacturing 
interests,  seeking  investment  and  location  at  a  centre,  touched  by 
radiating  lines  of  railroad  accessible  to  market  here  or  hence. 
And  with  this  Water  Supply  and  all  other  advantages  of  a 
business  centre,  educational,  religious  and  social  privileges,  and  a 
beautiful  and  healthy  home,  no  city  in  Illinois  can,  with  argument, 
in  truth  designate  a  location  more  desirable  on  all  grounds  consid- 
ered, than  THE  CITY  OF  DECATUK,  the  "  Indianapolis  of 
lUinois." 


GAS  SUPPLY. 

By  J.  K.  Wakben,  Esq. 

Decatur  was  seen  by  "  Gas  Light "  for  the  first  time  in  No- 
vember, 1868,  and  has  as  complete  and  well  ordered  set  of  Works 
for  their  size,  as  any  place  can  boast  of,  and  of  sufficient  capacity 
to  meet  the  demand  for  years  to  come.  The  cost  of  the  Works 
and  extensions  up  to  the  present  time  is  over  $60,000. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATFR.  19 

Street  mains  now  extend  a  distance  of  one  and  a  half  miles 
southwest  from  the  Illinois  Central  Depot,  embracing  in  their 
course  the  business  portion  of  the  city  as  well  as  many  of  the 
dwelling  blocks,  and  extensions  continue  to  be  made  as  rapidly 
as  the  prospect  of  consumption  justifies. 

The  price  of  Gas  nominally  is  $4  50  per  thousand  cubic  feet, 
from  which  50  cents  per  thousand  is  deducted  for  prompt  pay- 
ment monthly.  A  further  reduction  is  made  upon  a  scale  gradu- 
ated to  the  amount  consumed  per  month,  as  low  as  $3  00  per 
thousand.  In  fact,  no  place  in  the  State  is  supplied  with  Gas 
Light  at  any  lower  rates  than  Decatur. 


HEALTH. 

Bt  Dr.  —  Chenoweth. 

"  Filth  and  over-crowding,  short  supplies  of  water  and  serial 
impurities,"  recognized  local  causes  of  sickness,  do  not  exist  in 
Decatur. 

Being  on  elevated  ground,  seventy-five  feet  above  the  Sanga- 
mon river,  which  approaches  within  half  a  mile  of  the  city  on  the 
south,  it  is  naturally  so  well  drained  that  very  little  labor  and 
expense  will  make  the  sewerage  perfect. 

In  the  early  settlement,  and  until  the  growth  of  the  town  caus- 
ed the  removal  of  contiguous  ponds  and  sloughs,  ague  and  other 
malarial  fevers  prevailed,  but  now  no  western  city  is  more  ex- 
empt from  this  class  of  diseases.  The  mortality  in  Decatur  in 
the  month  of  June,  1854,  when  the  population  did  not  exceed 
one  thousand,  was  greater  from  miasmatic  diseases  alone,  than  it 
has  been  during  the  past  three  months  (with  a  population  of  ten 
thousand)  from  all  diseases. 

The  water  supply,  which  is  abundant,  independent  of  the 
Water  Works  now  being  constructed,  is  obtained  from  wells  sunk 
to  gravel  beds  or  quicksands,  which  underlie  every  part  of  the 
city  from  twenty  to  fifty  feet  below  the  surface.  The  water  is  of 
good  quality,  free  from  mineral  or  other  impurities,  and  is  gen- 


20 


HISTOKT    OF    DECATUR. 


erally  limestone  or  "  hard  water,"  but  there  are  a  few  wells  of 
"  soft  water  "  near  the  railroad  depot. 

In  the  south  part  of  the  city,  on  Mr.  J.  Imboden's  property,  is 
an  artesian  well,  which  possesses  very  decided  medicinal  qualities. 
Dr.  J.  V.  Z.  Blaney,  of  Chicago,  made  a  chemical  analysis  of 
the  water,  as  follows : 

"One  Litre  of  water  taken.  Whole  amount  of  solid  matter  found  by  evapora- 
tion to  complete  dryness,  .4833.291  grammes  in  1  Litre  of  water,  which  is  equal  to 
27.116,251  grains  in  1  W.  S.  gallon  of  221.780  cubic  inches. 

"  This  solid  matter  consists  of  chloride  of  Magnesium  .0474.506  grammes  in  1 
Litre,  or  2.66197866  grains  in  1  gallon, 

Sulphate    of    Lime    .0365190  grains  in  1    Litre,  or  2.0487159©  grains  in  1  gallon. 
Carbonate  of   Lime  .02068595     "  "  11.60481795      " 

Silica  .175  "  "  9.8175  "  " 

Iron  and  Alumina       .0175  "  "  .98175  "  " 


Total  .4833291       "  "  27.11476251       "  " 

"Carbonic  Acid  Gas  uncombined  and  held  in  solution,  70.44  cubic  inches." 

The  city  will  doubtless  be  a  resort  for  invalids  in  search  of 
health,  not  only  on  account  of  the  excellent  quality  and  medici- 
nal virtues  of  this  water,  but  also  because  it  affords  most  desirable 
sanitary  surroundings. 


EDUCATIONAL. 

By  Pkof.  E.  A.  Gastman. 

PUBLIC    SCHOOLS. 

Our  city  has  five  school  buildings; 

the  high  school,  of  which  four  rooms 

are  used   for  the  seating  of  pupils; 

the  Ist  Ward,  all  of  the   rooms  be 

^  ing  in  use ;  the  2d  Ward,   most  of 

them    at  present   in   use;    the    3d 

:^  Ward,  all  used  ;  ith  Ward  all  used. 

^^  The  buildings  are  all  in  good  repair, 

and   furnished   with    most  modern 

improvements  in  way  of  ventilation, 

^^-  .«^<«-.  seatino^,  heatino-,  &c.,  and  cost  com- 

DECATUR    HIGH    SCHOOL.  plctcd    aS   folloWS  ! 

High  School,  complete $35,000 

1st  Ward  School,  complete 15,000 

2d  Ward  School,  complete 15,000 

3d  Ward  School,  complete 20,000 

4th  Ward  School,  complete 14,000 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  21 


The  schools  of  Decatur  have  always  received  the  most  liberal 
support  of  its  citizens,  whose  aim  has  been  to  afibrd  not  only  ad- 
vantages such  as  are  usually  found  in  the  common  public  schools, 
but  if  possible,  to  attain  a  higher  standard,  and  that  there  might 
not  be  a  necessity  for  any  of  its  citizens  to  send  their  children 
away  from  parental  over-sight  and  care.  And  such  has  been  the 
success  attained,  there  has  not  been  a  felt  need  in  the  way  of  in- 
dependent educational  institutions. 

The  com-se  of  study,  as  will  be  seen  on  the  following  pages,  is 
the  most  complete  and  thorough,  comprising  not  only  all  the 
branches  usually  taught  in  public  schools,  but  also  many  of  those 
belonging  to  a  classical  education. 

The  schools  of  the  city  are  all  under  the  charge  of  experienced 
and  intelligent  teachers,  to  whom  the  most  liberal  salaries  are 
paid,  much  higher  than  many  of  its  sister  cities. 

The  schools  are  managed  by  a  Board  of  Education,  consisting 
at  present  of  Wm.  L.  Hammer,  Henry  B.  Durfee  and  Samuel  F. 
Greer.  The  ofl&cers  of  the  Board  are  Wm.  L.  Hammer,  Presi- 
dent ;  J.  R.  Gorin,  Treasurer ;  E.  A.  Gastman,  Clerk  and  Super- 
intendent. Twenty-nine  teachers  are  employed  in  the  schools 
the  present  year : 

High  School. — E.  A.  Gastman,  Miss  M.  M.  Sargent,  Miss 
Mary  W.  French,  Miss  Emily  H.  Cotton.  Primary  Department 
— Miss  Sarah  E.  Allen,  Miss  Jennie  E.  Durfee. 

First  Ward. — Mr.  David  Bigelow,  Mrs.  Alice  E.  Slocumb, 
Miss  Alice  M.  Betzer,  Miss  Mary  A.  Perry. 

Second  Ward. — Miss  M.  W.  Carson,  Miss  Maggie  Kerr,  Mrs. 
P.  E.  Foulke,  Miss  Carrie  Jameson,  Miss  Sallie  Roe. 

Third  Ward. — Miss  C.  M.  Parker,  Miss  Mary  E.  Grunendike, 
Miss  Annie  E.  Haskell,  Miss  Maggie  Sollars,  Miss  Rachel  Cook, 
Miss  Fannie  Johns. 

Fourth  Ward. — Miss  Mary  Wilder,  Miss  Anna  Magee,  Miss 
E.  M.  Beswick,  Miss  Kate  Stickel. 

Jones'  School. — Mrs.  N.  W.  Coleman. 

Colored  School. — Mr.  E.  R.  Adams.  Training  Teacher — Miss 
Lizzie  Leeper, 

The  following  "Courses  of  Study"  will  show  the  work  proposed 
to  be  done  in  the  schools  : 


22 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


WARD  SCHOOLS— COURSE  OF  STUDY. 


GRADES 

Readers 

Spelling 

Writing 

Arithmetic j 

Geography 

Grammar 

History  U.  S 

Object  Lessons 


PRIMARY 

dep't. 


II. 


1st       2d 
X         X 

Slate    Slate 

i 
I 

Oral      Oral 
Oral     


I 


X 


intermed. 
dep't. 


III. 


3d 

X 

X 

Felter 
I. 

Ele. 


IV. 


4th 

X 

X 

Felter 
II. 

Ele. 


GRAMMAR 

dep't. 


Int. 

X 

X 

Felter 
II. 

Int. 


VI. 


5th 

X 

X 

Ray's 
III. 

Int. 

X 


VII. 


5th 

X 

X 

Ray's 
III. 


X 
X 


^^Each  Grade  corresponds  to  a  Scholastic  Year. 

TEXT  BOOKS  USED  IN  THE  WARD  SCHOOLS. 

HUlard's  Readers  and  Tablets,  Worcester's  Speller, 

Payson,    Dunton     &     Scribner's  Copy  Felter's  Arithmetic,  1st  and  3d  Books, 

Books,  Guyot's  Geographies, 

Ray's  Arithmetic,  3d  Book,  Quackenboss'  Guide  to  Composition, 

Seavey's  Goodrich's  History,  National  Tablets, 

Guyot's  &  Mitchel's  Outline  Maps,  Greene's  Introductory  Grammar, 

Boston  School  Tablets,  The  Nursery, 

Worcester's  and  Webster's  Dictionaries, 


HIGH  SCHOOL— COURSE  OF  STUDY. 
FIRST  YEAR. 


FIRST  TERM. 


SECOND    TERM. 


English  Grammar  and  Anal.  English  Grammar  and  Anal. 


THIRD   TERM. 


Physical  Geography, 
Arithmetic, 
Latin  Grammar. 


I  Physical  Geography, 

I  Arithmetic. 

iLat.  Gram,  and  Reader. 


Civil  Government, 
Review  U.  S.  History, 
Book  Keeping, 
Lat.  Gram,  and  Reader. 


SECOND  YEAR. 


Zoology, 
Physiology, 
Algebra, 
Caesar. 


Geology, 

Natural  Philosophy, 

Algebra, 

Caesar. 


Botany, 

Natural  Philosophy, 
Algebra, 
!  Caesar. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


23 


THIRD  YEAR. 


FIRST  TEBM. 


History. 
Astronomy. 
Geometry. 
Virgil. 


SECOND  TBRM. 


History. 

Political  Economy. 

Geometry. 

Virgil. 


THIRD   TBRM. 


History. 
Rhetoric. 
Trigonometry. 
Virgil. 


FOURTH  YEAR. 


FIRST  TERM. 

SECOND  TERM. 

THIRD    TERM. 

English  Literature, 

Chemistry, 

Cicero. 

• 

Eng.  and  Am.  Literature, 
Chemistry, 
Mental  Philosophy, 
Cicero. 

Etymology, 

Reviews, 

Moral  Philosophy. 

Drawing,  Penmanship,  Spelling,  Reading,  Declamation  and  Composition  through- 
out the  course,  as  may  be  deemed  necessary. 

Pupils  wishing  to  prepare  for  college,  will  commence  Greek  at  the  beginning  of 
the  third  year.  Latin  is  optional,  and  pupils  studying  it  will  omit  such  other 
studies  as  may  be  deemed  best  by  the  Principal. 


TEXT  BOOKS  USED   IN  THE  HIGH  SCHOOL. 

Walton's  Written  Arithmetic,  Tenney's  Geology, 

Greene's  Grammar,  Cutter's  Physiology, 

Warren's  Physical  Geography,  Steele's  Philosophy, 

Hillard's  Sixth  Reader,  Davies'  Elementary  Geometry, 

Worcester's  Speller,  Olmsted's  Astronomy, 

Tenney's  Natural  History,  Davies'  Trigonometry, 

Gray's  Botany,  Andrews  &  Stoddard's  Latin  Grammar, 

Wilson's  Outline  History,  Hanson's  Latin  Prose  Book, 

Youman's  Chemistry,  Haven  s  Mental  Philosophy, 

Allen's  Latin  Grammar  and  Lessons,  Wayland's  Moral  Philosophy, 

Bryant  &  Stratton's  Book-Keeping,  Guyot's  Maps, 

Davies'  New  Elementary  Algebra,  Worcester's  &  Webster's  Dictionaries. 

Below  will  be  found  a  brief  summary  of  school  statistics  for 
the  year  1870-1 : 

Whole  number  of  different  pupils  enrolled 1  882 

Number  of  male  teachers  employed '    3 

Number  of  female  teachers  employed 25 

Average  number  belonging 1  436.5 

Average  daily  attendance I'sS?!? 

Per  cent  of  attendance '  94^5 

Number  of  tardinesses  during  the  year 1  895" 

Highest  salary  paid  male  teachers $1 .500 

Lowest        "     *      "           "              '450 

Average      "            "           "               .■'■  i^050 

Highest  salary  paid  females 700 

Lowest        "              "             315 

Average      "              "             *  490 

Salary  paid  superintendent 'l  800 

Cost  per  pupil  for  tuition 1 1 .42 

Entire  cost  per  pupil 19!48 


24 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUE. 


CEMETEEIES. 

By  J.  R.  GoRiN,  Esq. 

The  stockholders  of  the  Cemetery  Association,  in  Decatur,  or- 
ganized under  the  general  law  of  the  State,  on  the  2Tth  day  of 
March,  A.  D,  1857,  by  electing  William  Martin,  Sr.,  president, 
Nathan  W.  Tupper,  treasurer,  and  John  Ricketts,  David  L.  Allen 
and  Daniel  C.  Lockwood,  directors.  The  name  given  to  the  As- 
sociation, and  by  which  it  is  designated,  is  "  The  Decatur  Green- 
wood Cemetery." 

The  Cemetery  is  situated  south  of  and  adjoining  the  city.  Since 
the  organization  in  1857,  the  grounds  have  been  tastefully  laid 
out,  and  many  who  have  purchased  lots  have  ornamented  them, 
and  fitted  them  up  in  a  style  which  makes  the  j)lace  look  cheerful 
and  attractive.  The  grounds  have  become  quite  a  resort  for  the 
citizens,  especially  for  those  who  have  friends  buried  there.  For 
the  present  beautiful  arrangement  of  the  grounds,  and  the  im- 
provements made  thereon,  we  are  largely  indebted  to  Hon.  Henry 
Prather,  deceased,  who  was,  at  the  hour  of  his  death,  and  had 
been,  for  several  years  previous,  president  of  the  Association,  and 
who  devoted  a  great  deal  of  his  time  in  devising  means  to  beau- 
tify and  adorn  the  grounds,  and  make  them  more  attractive.  The 
grounds  are  still  being  beautified  under  the  present  management. 
Alexander  T.  Hill,  president ;  Wrn.  L.  Hammer,  John  Ullrich 
and  Henry  B.  Durfee,  directors,  and  J.  R.  Gorin,  secretary  and 
treasurer. 


VINEYARDS. 

By  Theodore  Hildebrandt,  Esq. 

The  choicest  and  most  grateful  of  all  fruits,  the  Grape,  is 
grown  here  quite  extensively.  Ever  since  its  introduction  from 
Asia  into  Europe,  it  has  kept  pace  with  civilization.  Thei'e  are 
about  300  acres  in  cultivation,  150  of  which  are  in  bearing,  and 
the  business  has  been  very  remunerative  to  vineyardists.  Of  the 
300,000  vines  grown,  one-half  are  Concords,  one-quarter  Cataw- 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUK.  25 

ba's  and  the  rest  the  various  kinds,  such  as  Delaware,  Roger's 
Hybrids,  lona,  Clinton  and  innumerable  new  varieties  put  into 
the  market  annually  by  Horticulturists.  The  yield  of  wine  in 
1870  was  about  500  barrels,  one-half  of  which  was  made  by  the 
Decatur  Wine  Company,  whose  product  compares  favorably  with 
that  of  older  makers  in  older  wine  districts.  The  time  is  not  far 
distant  when  Central  Illinois  will  not  be  compelled  to  import 
wine  from  other  States  and  countries,  but  will  largely  export,  and 
give  to  our  people  a  good  wine  as  cheap  as  the  poor  people  of 
the  old  countries  get  it.  There  are  yet  hundreds  of  acres  of  line 
river  bluff  lands  in  the  vicinity  of  Decatur,  well  adapted  to  the 
growth  of  the  Grape,  which  can  be  bought  very  cheap.  The  soil 
of  these  blutf  lands  is  peculiarly  rich,  and  just  such  as  the 
vineyardist  always  looks  for  but  seldom  iinds,  and  only  awaits 
the  labor  of  experienced  men  and  a  little  capital  to  give  hundreds 
remimerative  employment  and  pleasant  homes. 


FAIR  GROUNDS. 

By  O.  Bramble,  Esq. 

The  Decatur  Fair  Grounds,  situated  one-half  mile  south  of  the 
city  hmits,  were  first  laid  out  in  1857,  by  a  stock  company,  and 
most  of  the  present  improvements  were  made  while  under  its 
control.  In  1868  the  grounds  were  given  to  Macon  county. 
They  have  an  area  of  forty  acres,  the  entire  grounds  being  a 
natural  grove,  cleared  only  sufficient  to  make  room  for  the  ne- 
cessary buildings  and  sheds,  and  affords  shade  of  unusual  beauty 
and  extent. 

An  eight  foot  tight  board  fence  encloses  the  grounds.  There 
are  six  springs  within  the  enclosure,  which  furnish  water  to  an 
unlimited  extent  and  of  the  best  quality.  The  principal  build- 
ings consist  of  a  large  amphitheatre  that  has  accommodations  for 
5,000  persons  ;  Farm  Product  Hall,  4Uxl00  ;  Mechanical  and  In- 
dustrial Hall,  40x60  ;  A  Fine  Art  Hall,  (octagon,)  40  ft.;  Cattle 
Stall  accommodations  for  nearly  500;  also  Pens  for  500  Hogs. 

The   Illinois  State   Fairs  have  been  held  here  for  the  years 

1863-64,  and  1869-70. 
4 


'2Q  HISTORY    OF    DECATUK. 


These  grounds  are  thought,  by  all  who  have  visited  them,  the 
most  beautiful  and  best  for  fair  purposes  of  any  in  the  United 
States,  and  considered  by  most  of  the  patrons  of  our  State  Fair, 
as  an  appropriate  place  for  its  permanent  location. 


PUBLIC  LIBEAEIES  AISD  SOCIAL  ORGANIZATIONS. 

LADIES  LIBRARY  ASSOCIATION. 

This  organization,  as  indicated  above,  is  under  the  exclusive 
management  of  the  ladies  of  the  city.  It  is  in  a  flourishing 
condition,  and  is  considered  one  of  the  best  and  most  permanent 
institutions  of  the  place.  Besides  opening  to  the  public  an  excel- 
lent circulating  library,  this  association  is  the  organized  medium 
for  secui'ing  lectures  from  abroad. 

The  Circulating  Library  is  open  every  Saturday,  from  1  o'clock 
until  5  o'clock,  P.  ^J.,  for  exchange  of  books.  Any  person  may 
become  a  life  member  of  the  Association  by  the  payment  of  $25, 
or  an  annual  member  on  the  payment  of  $3.  And  any  mem- 
ber shall  be  entitled  to  all  the  privileges  of  the  Association. 

THE  CONCORDIA  CLUB. 

Such  is  the  name  of  an  association  existing  in  our  city.  Its 
purposes  are  the  promotion  of  the  literary  and  social  amusements. 
It  was  founded  in  the  fall  of  1868,  by  a  few  of  the  most  promi- 
nent German  citizens,  and  although  at  first  intended  exclusively 
lor  Germans,  it  has  become  so  popular,  and  the  influence  has  been 
80  strong,  as  to  change  the  programme  materially,  and  the  Club 
counts  amongst  its  members,  not  only  the  prominent  Germans, 
but  some  of  the  most  prominent  of  Americans.  The  Germans' 
social  spirit,  aided  by  the  advanced  ideas  of  their  American  fel- 
low citizens,  have  established  the  Association  upon  a  most  perma- 
nent footing,  socially  as  well  as  financially. 

The  Club  Room  oflfers  entertainments  for  lovers  of  tragedy  or 
comedy,  lovers  of  music,  or  those  that  desire  the  more  retired 
pastime  of  reading.  Newspapers  and  periodicals  from  abroad, 
as  also  the  most   prominent  literary  joui-nals  of  the  country,  are 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  27 


kept ;  while  the  singing  dub,  although  as  yet  in  its  infancy,  of- 
fers much  towards  the  fulfillment  of  the  most  sanguine  expecta- 
tions. The  instrumental  entertainments,  presided  over  by  the 
accomplished  Prof.  Goodman,  are  all  that  can  be  desired. 

The  association  truly  deserves  the  support  of  all  liberal  minded 
citizens,  and  we  bespeak  for  it  a  happy  and  prosperous  future. 


CHUKCHES. 

BAPTIST. 

First. — Was  constituted  September  14, 1843,  with  twelve  mem- 
bers. The  successive  pastors  have  been:  H.  W.  Dodge,  Moses 
Lemen,  B.  Carpenter,  C.  H.  Gates,  N.  Alvord,  J.  N.  Tolman,  B. 
F.  Thomas,  S.  G.  Miner,  F.  M.  Ellis,  F.  G.  Thearle  and  S.  F. 
Holt.  The  present  number  of  members  is  ISO.  The  Sunday 
School  has  200  members ;  Geo.  F.  Wessels,  Superintendent. 
Their  house  of  worship,  a  brick  edifice,  sixty  feet  by  forty, 
on  the  north-east  corner  of  Water  and  William  streets,  was  dedi- 
cated December  27,  1857.  It  is  exj)ected  it  will  soon  give  place 
to  a  more  commodious  and  elegant  building,  one  better  suited  to 
the  present  strength  and  tastes  of  the  Society.  The  present  ot- 
iicers  of  the  Church  are:  S.  F.  Holt,  Pastor;  Geo.  Wood,  M. 
Y.  Givler  and  D.  Moses,  Deacons. 

Rolling  Mill  Chapel. — Erected  by  the  Baptist  Church  in  1871, 
at  a  cost  of  about  $2,500.  Sabbath  School  has  150  members  ; 
Ira  Harris,  Jr.,  Superintendent. 

Antioch,  African. — Was  organized  1858,  with  14  members. 
Has  a  comfortable  house  of  worship  on  South  Main  Street,  near 
Bramble's  Grove.     At  present  without  a  pastor. 

CATHOLIC. 

St.  Patrick's. — Organized  1854.  Present  church  building  erect- 
ed 1863,  and  is  a  handsome  brick  edifice,  with  sittings  for  about 
800  persons.  The  interior  is  finished  in  most  excellent  taste,  and 
is  very  attractive.  Present  Pastor,  Rev.  R.  A.  Welch.  Number 
of  members  about  300  families,  or  1,500  persons.     Sunday  School 


28  HISTORY    OF   DECATUR. 

200  pupils.  Parochia  School,  100  scholars,  under  charge  of  P.  A. 
O'Brian.  Theresa  Academy,  under  care  of  this  church,  now 
closed,  it  is  expected  will  be  open  in  November,  under  charge  of 
Ursaline  Sisters,  of  New  York. 

CHRISTIAN. 

Organized  1833,  with  12  members  Rev.  Ira  Mitch  el,  present 
Pastor.  Present  membership  about  150.  JSumber  scholars  in 
Sunday  School,  100;  William  Shocky  Superintendent.  The 
house  of  worship  is  a  plain  one,  and  is  quite  too  small  for  present 
con2;reo:ations. 

CHURCH    OF    THE    UNITED    BRETHREN    IN    ©HRIST. 

Organized  by  Rev.  James  Neighbarger,  A.  D.  1854,  with  six 
members.  House  of  worship,  a  plain  Ijrick  building,  erected  in 
the  year  1857.  Corner  North  Main  and  Cerro  Gordo  Streets.  Yal 
ued  at  $3,500.  Parsonage,  same  block,  valued  at  $2,000.  Total, 
$5,500.  Present  number  of  members  in  Church,  110 ;  number 
in  Sabbath  School,  125,  L.  Field,  Pastor,  CI.  Smelsby,  Treasu- 
rer.    At  present,  no  Superintendent  of  Sabbath  School. 

UNIVERSALIST    CHURCH. 

On  Prairie  Street,  between  Main  and  Water.  Organized  1856; 
80  members.  Building  and  lot  valued  at  $6,000.  Rev.  S.  F. 
Gibb,  Pastor.  Sunday  School  organized  1856;  attendance  75. 
Volumes  in  Library,  400.     D.  L.  Bunn,  Superintendent. 

CHURCH  OF    GOD. 

The  Church  of  God,  in  Decatur,  was  organized  May  1st,  1857, 
by  Elder  A.  J.  Fenton  and  assisted  by  Elder  John  Winebrenner, 
consisting  of  ten  members.  The  following  year  the  Church 
erected  present  house  of  worship  at  the  corner  of  North  Water 
and  Cerro  Gordo  streets.  The  present  church  has  fifty  mem- 
bers, with  Elder  M.  S.  Newcomer  as  pastor.  The  Sabbath  school 
has  about  one  hundred  members. 

PROTESTANT    EPISCOPAL. 

St.  Johns',  located  on  North  Water  street,  near  Eldorado;  was 
organized  in  1855.  Wardens,  Cyril  Fuller  and  James  Forester; 
Lober  Burrows  and  William  S.  Quinlan,  Vestrymen ;  Lober  Bur- 
rows, Treasurer ;  Wm.  S.  Quinlan,  Secretary. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR.  29 


LUTHERAN. 

German,  church  building  corner  Wood  and  Edward's^streets. 

METHODIST  EPISCOPAL. 

The  Methodist  Episcopal  Church  was  organized  in  the  year 
1831.  The  Rev.  Ashel  E.  Phelps  was  preacher  in  charge  of 
what  was  then  called  "  Salt  Creek  Circuit,"  In  1888  the  name 
changed  to  "  Decatur  Circuit."  In  1854,  Decatur  became  a  sta- 
tion, and  Rev.  Reuben  Andrus  was  the  first  stationed  minister. 
A  small  frame  building  situated  on  lot  7,  block  2,  original  town 
of  Decatur,  was  for  many  years  their  place  of  worship;  this  was 
succeeded  in  1852,  by  a  brick  edifice  40x60  on  the  corner  of 
East  Prairie  and  North  Water  streets,  and  this  by  the  present 
magnificent  edifice,  85x120  feet,  on  the  northwest  corner  of  North 
Water  and  William  streets,  costing  when  completed  $60,00('. 
This  edifice  was  commenced  under  the  auspices  of  Rev.  Levi  C. 
Pitner,  preacher  in  charge,  in  1868.  The  congregation  wor- 
shipped for  three  years  (the  audience  room  being  unfinished)  in 
the  lecture  room,  the  completeness  of  the  arrangement  of  which 
for  Sabbath  school  purposes  is  well  worthy  of  note.  In  June, 
1871,  Rev.  James  H.  Noble,  preacher  in  charge,  a  contract  was 
made  M'ith  Messrs.  Mills  and  Harvy  for  the  building  (except  fres- 
coing). These  gentlemen  have  had  the  entire  superintendence  of 
the  work  except  as  above,  from  the  foundation  stone  to  the  top  of 
the  main  spire,  and  have  faithfully  carried  out  I  he  original  design 
to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  the  officers  and  members  of  the 
Church,  and  have  elicited  the  praise  of  all  who  have  examined 
their  work.  The  frescoing  is  done  in  a  fine,  artistic  style,  and  re- 
flects great  credit  upon  Mr.  M.  Albyer,  the  painter.  The  main 
spire  is  ISO  feet  high,  and  the  smaller  one  140  feet  high.  The 
audience  room  will  accomodate  1,200  persons.  The  whole  edifice 
for  architectural  beauty  and  convenience  of  arrangement  is  not 
excelled  by  any  structure  of  the  kind  in  the  State.  It  is  massive, 
and  finished  in  a  style  of  magnificence  which  makes  it  an  orna- 
ment to  the  city,  and  reflects  great  credit  upon  the  contractors 
and  the  workmen  engaged  in  the  erection.  The  design  is  by  the 
late  O.  S.  Kinney,  Architect,  Chicago.  Preacher  in  charge, 
James  H.  Noble ;  Trustees,  Wm.  T.  Stamper,  President ;  Samuel 


30  HISTORY    OF    DECATUE. 


F.  Greer,  Secretary ;  J.  R.  Gorin,  Treasurer ;  Peter  M.  Wikoff, 
Geo.  W.  Baker,  Dr.  Enoch  W.  Moore,  Jno.  Imboden,  Wm.  J. 
Condell  and  Caleb  C.  Burroughs.  Building  Committee,  John 
Imboden,  C.  C.  Burroughs  and  J.  R.  Gorin.  Present  menbers  of 
Church,  450  ;  members  of  Sunday  School,  450 ;  Superintendent, 
J.  R.  Gorin. 


staff's  chafel, 


Organized  in  18H7,  as  Franklin  M.  E.  Church,  with  hfty  members. 
Purchased  the  site  and  built  the  present  house  of  worship,  corner 
Franklin  and  Edwards  streets,  1868,  which,  together  with  the  par- 
sonage, cost  about  $35,000.  It  is  one  of  the  most  attractive  and 
convenient  churches  in  Central  Illinois,  and  reflects  great  credit 
upon  the  architect  and  builders,  the  latter — Mills  &  Harry — resi- 
dents of  the  city.  Present  pastor,  H.  O.  Hoffman.  Membership 
of  the  Church  is  215.  Sunday  School  numbers  300;  D.  S.  Shei- 
lenbarger,  superintendent. 

African. — Organized  1862  with  four  members  present.  Mem- 
bership 62.  A.  Mcintosh,  Pastor.  Number  of  Sabbath  School 
scholars,  50.  C.  S.  Jacobs,  Superintendent.  House  of  worship 
is  on  S.  Main  Street,  near  Bramble's  Grove. 

German. — Situated  on  Edwards,  near  Union.  Rev.  Lewis 
Herman,  Pastor. 

FIRST    PRESBYTERIAN. 

Organized  May  1,  1852,  with  12  members.  Rev.  Mr.  Pratt 
Pastor.  Successive  Pastors,  Rev.  David  Manfort,  Rev.  E.  W. 
Thayer,  Rev.  P.  D.  Young,  Rev.  F.  M.  Oviatt,  Rev.  D.  C.  Mar- 
quis, Rev.  Samuel  Conn.  Present  Pastor,  Rev.  J.  E.  Moffatt. 
Elders,  S.  S.  Malone,  Orlando  Powers,  T.  H.  Allen,  G.  E.  More- 
house, J.  H.  Lewis,  R.  P.  Lytle.  Present  membership,  240 ; 
Sabbath  School,  225.  Sabbath  School  Superintendent,  W.  T. 
Wells. 

UNITED    BRETHREN. 

Corner  of  Main  and  Cerro  Gordo  Streets.  Rev.  Mr.  Fields, 
Pastor. 


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MASONIC  ORGANIZATIONS. 


MACON  LODGE,  NO.  8. 

Geo.  W.  Bright,  W.  M. 
Wtn.  Gibsou,  S.  W. 
D.  T.  Sherman,  J.  W. 
N.  S.  Krone,  Sec'y. 
Wm.  L.  Hammer,  Treas. 
W.  W.  Foster,  S.  D. 
John  Swearingen,  J.  D. 
Henry  Hummell,  Tyler. 

IONIC  LODGE,  NO.  312. 

John  Quinlan,  W.  M. 
J.  H.  Babbitt,  S.  W. 
Cyrus  Imboden,  J.  W. 
W.  A.  Moore,  Sec'y. 
A.  A.  Murray,  Treas. 
J.  N.  Baker,  S.  D. 
James  Durfee,  J.  D. 
Wm.  Towling,  Tyler. 


MACON  CHAPTER,  No.  21. 

A.  A.  Murray,  H.  P. 
John  H.  Babbitt,  K. 
J.  G.  Starr,  S. 
N.  L.  Krone,  Sec'y. 
J.  Quinlan,  C.  of  H. 


Geo.  W.  Bright,  P.  S. 
A  C.  Carmali,  R.  A.  C. 
Wm.  Gibson.  C.  of  1st  V. 
Wm.  Martin,  C.  of  2d  V. 
M.  Y.  Givler,  C   of  3d  V. 
Henry  Hummell,  Tyler. 

DECATUR  COUNCIL,  No.  16. 

A.  A.  Murray,  G.  M. 
J.  R.  Gorin,  P.  C.  W. 
D.  P.  Bunn,  D.  J. 

Regular  meeting  first  Monday  of  eve- 
ry month. 

BEAUMANOIR  COMMANDERY,  No.  9 

A.  A.  Murray,  E.  C. 
Robert  Green,  G. 
John  Quiulan,  C.  G. 
Geo.  W.  Bright,  P. 
J.  H.  Babbilt.  S.  W. 
M.  Y.  Givler,  J.  W. 
N.  L.  Krone,  R. 
S.  F.  Greer,  N. 
Albert  Emmerson,  S.  B. 
J.  G.  Starr,  J.  B. 
Cyrus  Imboden,  W. 
Henry  Hummell,  C.  G. 


ODD  FELLOWS. 


DECATUR  No.  65 

H.  M.  Oberndorfer,  N.  G. 
P.  J.  Shoch,  V.  G. 
N.  Edwards,  R.  S. 
Wm.  Towling,  P.  S. 
G.   W.  Baker,  Treas. 
I.  N.  Martin,  Warden. 
A.  Meisenhelter,  Con. 
Geo.   Backman,  I.  G. 


CELESTIAL  No.  186. 


C.  P.  Hansum,  N.  G. 
R.  B.  Mohegan,  V.  G. 
H.  P.  Christie,  R.  S. 


Joseph  Gates,  P.  S. 
I.  W.  Eherman,  Treas. 
M.  A.  Albeitz,  Warden. 
H.  B.  Durfee,  Con. 
A.  W.  Slack,  I.  G. 
J.  W.  Bear,  O.  G. 

DECATUR  ENCAMPMENT,   No.  37. 

C.  P.  Housum,  W.  P. 
J.  P.  Farris,  H.  P. 
S.  F.  Gibb,  8.  W. 
M.  Albeitz,  J.  W. 
Wm.  Towling,  Scribe. 
John  W.  Bear,  Treas. 


KNIGHTS  OF   PYTHIAS. 


COLUER  DE  LEON. 

B.  K.  Durfee,  W.  C. 

J.  F.  McChain.  V.  C. 

B.  F.  Dodson,  V.  P. 

W.  F.  McEwen,  R.  and  C.  S. 


J.  W.  Balthus,  B. 
J.  W.  Routh,  G. 
A.  H.  Varney,  I.  S. 
C.  M.  Durfee,  O.  S. 

Regular  meetiag  on  Wednesdays   of 
each  week. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


33 


GOOD   TEMPLAES. 


CENTRAL  STAR  LODGE,  No.  543. 

Win.  Towline,  L.  D. 

D.  L.  Bunn,  P.  W.  C.  T. 

C.  M.  Allison,  W.  C.  T. 


MoUie  Logan,  W.  V.  T. 
Orval  B.  Gorin,  W.  S. 

Bradt,  W.  F.  S. 

Wm.  Oaks,  W.  T. 
Theo.  Coleman,  W.  M. 


MISCELLANOUS. 


DECATUR  TURNVEREIN. 

L.  Fell,  1st  Spreecher. 
Geo.  Zeiss,  Scriftovart. 
L.  Schlosser,  Schatzmeistcr. 

LADIES  LIBRARY  ASSOCIATION. 

Mrs.  A.  A.  Powers,  President. 
Mrs.  M.  K.  Hatch,  Vice  Pres. 
Mrs.  Dr.  I.  N.  Barnes,  Sec'y. 
Miss  Libby  Jack,  Cor.  Sec'y. 
Mrs.  A.  T.  Hill,  Treas. 


CONCORDIA  CLUB. 

Joseph  Michel,  Pres't. 
Theo  Hildebrant,  Vice  Pres't. 
Henry  M.  Oberndorl'er,  Sec. 
Berthold  Stein,  Treas. 

GERMAN  MUTUAL  AID  SOCIETY. 

C.  Amman,  President. 
John  Blakely,  Secretary. 
John  Brant,  Treasurer. 


OFFICERS  OF  THE  STATE,  COUNTY,  CITY  AND 

TOWNSHIP. 


STATE  OFFICERS. 

Governor John  M.  Palmer. 

Lieut.  Governor John  Douj^herty. 

Secretary  ofState Edward  Rummell. 

Auditor  of  State C.  E.  Lippincott. 

Treasurer  ol  State E.  N.  Bates. 

Supt.  Pub.  Inst Newton  Bateman . 

CONGRESSMEN. 

Senators,  Lyman  Trumbull,  J.  A.  Logan. 
Rep.  at  Large,  7th  Dist.,  Jesse  H.  Moore. 


LEGISLATORS. 
State  Senator Michael  Donahue . 


JUDICIAL  OFFICERS 

District  Judge A.  .J.  Gallagher. 

District  Attorney M.  B.  Thompson. 

Clerk  Circuit  Court E.  McClellan. 

COUNTY  OFFICERS. 

County  Judge 8.  F.  Greer. 

County  Clerk H.  W.  Waggoner. 

5 


County  Treasurer W.  M.  Boyd . 

Sherifif Geo,  M.  Wood. 

Deputy I.  D.  Jennings. 

Supt.  of  Schools O.  F.  McKim. 

County  Surveyor Geo.  V.  Loring. 

Coroner M.  Y.  GiTler. 

CITY  OFFICERS. 

Mayor E.  M.  Misner. 

ALDERMEN. 

1st  ward Joseph  Mills,  J.  W.  Myers. 

2d  ward Benj.  Dill,  E.  McNabb. 

3d  ward..M.  Forstmyer,  W.  H.  Bram'ale. 

4th  ward E.  Harpsirile,  W.  Gabler. 

Register Charles  H.  Fuller. 

Treasurer M.  K    Hatch. 

Assessor Fred.  J.  Smith. 

Attorney J .  R.  Eden . 

Engineer G.  V.  Loring. 

Supervisor A.  Martin . 

Marshal Jno.  Haworth. 

Deputy  Marohal J.  S.  Hewes. 

Magistrates.  A.  W.  Hardy,  G.  Goodman. 

FIRE   DEPARTMENT. 

Hook  and  Ladder  Co.,  No.  1 — B.  F.  Dod- 
son,  Foreman  ;  I.  \V.  ELrman,  Sec'y. 


34 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


TOWNSHIP    OFFICERS  IN  THE  CO. 

DECATUR. 

Supervisor M.  Forstmyer. 

Asst.  Supervisor Josepli  Mills. 

Town  Clerk Geo.  Goodman . 

Assessor Fred.  J.  Smith . 

Collector Jacob  H.  Miller. 

Commissioners  of  Highways Henry 

Cassell,  Jno.  H.  Ham. 
Justices  of  Peace M.   K.  Hatch,   A. 

W.  Hardy,  Geo.  Goodman,  S.  Steele. 
Constables H.  Churchman,  J.  J.  H. 

Touns;,  Harvey   Mahaunah,   George 

S.  Stoy. 

friend's  creek. 

Supervisor John  Marsh . 

Collector V.  D.  Ross. 

Assessor Frank  Turner. 

Town  Clerk J.  W.  Welton. 

LONG    CREEK. 

Supervisor J.  B.  Myers. 

Collector Benj .  F.  Wheeler . 

Assessor Geo.  C.  Davis. 

Town  Clerk  A,  T.  Davis. 

NIANTIC. 

Supervisor Sheldon  Parks. 

Collector H.  A.  Williams. 

Assessor Newman  Roberts. 

Town  Clerk Samuel  Zarley. 

SOUTH   MACON. 

Supervisor Joel  T.  Walker. 

Collector S.  C.  Attleberry . 

Assessor  Thomas  Attleberry. 

Town  Clerk Marion  Timmons. 

MOUNT   ZION. 

Supervisor Wm.  Davis. 

Collector John  Scott. 

Assessor George  A.  Smith. 

Town  Clerk Jas.  D.  Campbell. 

BLUE   MOUND. 

Supersvior Robt  H.  Hill . 

Collector Jos.  M.  Pasley. 

Assessor T.  P.  Steiner. 

Town  Clerk F.  H.  Coleman . 

HARRISTOWN. 

Supervisor M.  G.  Camron. 

Collector J.  H.  Cox. 

Assessor A.  Eyman . 

Town  Clerk H.  C.  Masters. 


AUSTIN. 

Supervisor Charles  F.  Emery . 

Collector Andrew  Hawkyard. 

Assessor Jos.  W.  Emery . 

Town  Clerk Jas.  H.  Newton. 

ILLINI. 

Supervisor Jos.  C.  Tucker. 

Collector Joseph  Brown. 

Assessor J.  S.  Childs. 

Town  Clerk Chas.  Remie . 

MARAO. 

Supervisor Samnel  Lowe. 

Collector Thos.  N.  Levitt. 

Assessor A.  Wykoff. 

Town  CJerk J.  M.  Gault. 

MILAM. 

Supervisor George  A.  Bartlett. 

Collector D.  J.  Freeland. 

Assessor John  R.  Hight. 

Town  Clerk J.  M.  Kerr. 

WHITMORE. 

Supervisor Joshua  Green. 

Collector A.  B.  Kuhns. 

Assessor R.  M.  Machan . 

Town  Clerk S.  G.  Coal. 

HICKORT   POINT. 

Supervisor ..Alex.  McBrlde. 

Collector J.  R.  Hays. 

Assessor J.  R.  Moon. 

Town  Clerk Geo.  Shatter. 

SOUTH   WHEATLAND. 

Supervisor Hiram  Ward. 

Collector Lewis  Morris. 

Assessor Jos.  M.  Trobaugh . 

Town  Clerk W.  S.  Nichols. 

PLEASANT  VIEW. 

Supervisor D.  D.  Powler. 

Collector O.  Ulrich. 

Assessor E.  T.  Clements. 

Town  Clerk E.  House. 

CAKLET. 

Supervisor Emanuel  Rhodes. 

Collector . 

Ass  essor E.  R.  Alsburi-y . 

Town  Clerk . 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


35 


MANUFACTORIES,    MILLS,  BUSINESS  HOUSES  AND 

PROFESSIONS. 


We  present  here  a  sketch  of  all  the 
different  manufaclurins  establishments 
of  Decatur.  We  would  not  indicate  by 
this,  there  are  no  openings  for  more  of  a 
like  character,  but  to  show  by  the  omis- 
sion of  any  not  enumerated  here,  their 
more  immediate  need  ;  and  also  showing 
to  the  agriculturist  a  prominent  induce- 
ment to  locate  where  all  their  wants  can 
be  supplied  without  cost  and  delay  of 
transportation,  and  at  prices  correspond- 
ing favorably  with  eastern  markets.  We 
also  give  a  sketch  of  the  most  prominent 
business  houses  and  professions. 

DECATUR  AGRICULTURAL 
WORKS. 

A  joint  stock  company,  organized  un- 
der the  general  laws  of  the  State,  went 
into  operation  in  the  fall  of  1868,  under 
the  management  of  H.  B.  Durfee,  Esq., 
as  general  superintendent.  These  works 
are  amply  provided  with  buildings  and 
machinery,  for  giving  employment  to 
from  200  to  250  men.  Their  buildings, 
consisting  of  foundry,  blacksmith  shops, 
machine .  shop,  wood-workers'  shops, 
paint  shops,  store  houses,  &c.,  occupy 
five  acres  of  ground  immediately  east  of 
the  Central  Depot.  During  the  past 
year  they  gave  employment  to  an  aver- 
age of  about  one  hundred  men,  and  dur- 
ing six  months  of  the  year,  including  the 
winter  months,  they  employeed  one 
hundred  and  forty  five  men. 

The  constantly  increasing  facilities  for 
distributing  of  their  manufactures,  coup- 
led with  the  rapidly  growing  demand  for 
the  peculiarly  desirable  goods  manufac- 
tured by  them,  will  soon  justify  the  em- 
ployment of  the  largest  number  of  men 
their  extensive  works  will  accommo- 
date. 

The  leading  feature  in  these  works  is 
the  manufacture  of  plows  and  cultivat- 
ing implements  Among  which  are, 
Durfee's  Clear  Landside  Clipper  Plow, 
Sattley  Gang  Plows,  Sattley  Sulkey 
Plows,  Sod  Plows,  the  Victor  Wheeled 
Walking  Cultivator.  They  also  manu- 
facture wheat  drills,  corn  planters,  har- 
rows, barrows,  road  scrapers,  etc. 

CENTRAL  IRON  WORKS. 

Early  in  the  spring  of  1865,  Burroughs 
&  Co.  commenced  to  build  what  they  in- 
tended simply  as  a  first  class  shop  for  re- 
pairing machinery,  but  their  work  giv- 
ing such  general  satisfaction,  a  demand 
arose  for  the  manufacture  of  mill  ma- 
chinery and  steam  engines,  and  they 
were  compelled  within  two  years  from 
their    commencment,  to    enlarge  their 


shops  or  turn  the  work  away  from  their 
door. 

Their  shops,  as  then  enlarged,  consist 
of  brick  buildings  containing  the  follow- 
ing rooms:  Machine  shop,  30x140  ft.; 
foundry,  50x00  ft.;  pattern  room,  30x70 
ft.;  and  store  room  30x50  ft.,  with  a  ca- 
jiacity  for  working  50  men. 

From  this  time  their  work  continued 
to  increase,  from  the  fact  that  in  adopt- 
ing patterns  for  machincy,  they  chose 
those  which  combined  strength  and  util- 
ity without  clumsiness.  All  unnecces- 
sary  weight  saved  being  a  saving  of 
money  and  friction. 

In  their  engines  they  sought  simplicity 
and  durability,  and  yet  did  not  overlook 
symmetry.  While  they  did  all  their 
work  well,  they  gave  extra  care  to  the 
working  parts  of  their  engines,  avoiding 
weight  where  it  was  not  needed,  and  ad- 
ding it  where  it  would  increase  the 
strength.  The  vital  part  of  an  engine  is 
in  the  manner  of  working  steam,  and  no 
steam  can  be  economically  worked  with- 
out a  good  valve,  and  to  this  point  the 
best  mechanics  have  given  their  closest 
study  for  many  years. 

The  "Ives'  Balanced  Slide  Valve," 
adopted  by  Burroughs  &  Co.,  was  at  the 
time  of  its  adoption  little  known,  hav- 
ing been  patented  but  a  few  months  be- 
fore, and  its  present  popularity  honors 
their  mechanical  judgment  in  its  selec- 
tion. The  valuable  points  in  this  valve, 
and  valve  motion,  are  tiriefly  as  follows  : 
1st,  Being  nearly  balanced,  little  is  lost 
iu  friction.  3d,  Steam  packing  of  valve 
is  always  tight,  requires  no  grinding, 
and  will  last  as  long  as  the  engine.  3d, 
Large  ports  give  free  passage  to  steam. 
4th,  Valve  operating  at  either  extreme 
end  of  the  cylinder,  no  steam  is  lost  in 
side  pipes.  5th,  Steam  may  be  easily 
and  accurately  cut  ofl'  at  any  portion  of 
the  stroke,  so  that  no  more  steam  need 
be  used  than  is  necessary  for  the  load. 
6th,  Every  part  is  durable. 

Their  engines  are  specially  liked  in 
those  mills  and  factories  where  the  great- 
est possible  saving  of  fuel  and  perfect 
regularity  of  motion,  under  varying 
loads,  is  indispensible.  In  fact,  so  well 
balanced  and  fitted  are  they  in  all  their 
parts,  one  of  their  chief  excellencies  is 
fouad  in  the  fewness  of  the  repairs  which 
they  require.  The  best  testimony  as  to 
their  popularity  is  found  in  the  fact  that 
where  one  of  their  engines  is  introduced 
there  soon  arises  a  demand  for  more. 

Their  coal-shaft  engines  have  gained  a 
good  reputation,  as  also  their  other  coal 
shaft  machinery.    One  of  their  pumps  in 


36 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


the  Jacksonville  coal  mine,  having  the 
capacity  for  the  discharge  of  600,000  gal- 
lons in  34  hours.  They  also  manufacture 
saw. mills,  sorghum  machinery,  house 
castings,  bridge  bolts,  and  almost  any- 
thing made  from  iron. 

The  growth  of  their  business  and  oth- 
er manufacturing  interests  in  the  city, 
shows  a  strong  contrast  with  the  time 
when  manufactured  articles  were  all 
brought  irom  the  east.  Now  the  west, 
at  least  that  portion  of  it  which  lies  in 
the  valley  of  the  Mississippi,  can  supply 
its  wants  almost  within  itself,  and  the 
time  must  soon  come  wken  the  east  will 
have  to  look  elsewhere  for  its  trade. 


HAWORTH'S  CHECK  ROWER. 

This  invention  was  first  introduced  to 
the  public  by  Geo.  D.  Ha  worth,  the  in- 
ventor, in  1869,  and  has  proved  to  be  one 
of  the  greatest  inventions  of  the  times. 
The  first  year  two  machines  were  sold, 
both  iu  Macon  county;  the  following 
year  five  hundred  were  sold,  and  in  1871, 
two  thousand. 

The  firm  of  Haworth  &  Sons  employed 
about  50  men  the  past  year.  The  Check 
Rower  is  used  in  all  the  western  States, 
and  gives  universal  satisfaction. 

It  can  be  attached  to  any  and  all  corn 
planters  now  in  use,  and  should  be  used 
by  every  farmer  who  plants  twenty  acres 
of  corn. 

The  advantages  are  patent  to  any  one 
who  will  for  a  moment  consider  the  value 
in  saving  the  marking  off  of  the  ground 
in  check  rows;  in  saving  the  weight  of  a 
man  on  the  planter,  besides  his  time;  but 
the  greatest  gain  is  in  the  fact  that  with 
this  machine  you  can  plant  the  corn  the 
same  day  the  ground  is  broken  up,  which 
gain  alone  would,  in  the  year  1869,  have 
made  millions  of  bushels  of  corn  for  the 
State  of  Illinois.  It  plants  with  accura- 
cy, making  a  row  of  corn  that  can  be 
plowed  both  ways  with  perfect  ease. 


COOPERS. 

There  are    several    cooper    establish-  j 

ments  here,  the  two  most  prominent  are  : 

under  the  management  of  D.  Martin  and  I 

William  Whrust,  who  make  nearly  ten  j 
thousand  barrels  a  year. 

FURNITURE.  I 

One  of  the  most  prominent  manufac- 
turing establishments  of  Decatur  is  the 
Furniture  and  Pump   Factories  of  Wra. 
Lintner  &  Co.,    located  on  East   Prairie 
and  Broadway  streets.      This    establish-   ; 
ment  was  started  by  Messrs.  Barnes  and 
Lintner,  in  1862,  who   gave  their  atten- 
tion to    the   manufacture  of  pumps  and   i 
agricultural  implements,  employing  but   I 
five  men.    The  business  was  conducted 
at  that  time  ou  a  very  small  scale,  and   i 


continued  so  until  1866.  At  this  time 
Mr.  Barne«  withdrew  from  the  firm,  and 
was  succeeded  by  Wm.  Lintner  &  Co., 
the  present  proprietors,  who  increased 
the  amount  of  capital  and  enlarged  their 
facilities,  by  the  erection  of  the  present 
buildings  for  a  furniture  manufactory. 

The  main  building  is  108x36  ft.,  five 
stories  high,  and  an  addition  lOOx.32, 
three  stories  high,  with  an  L  99x92,  three 
stories  high,  beside  a  building  used  for 
drying  and  storage  of  lumber. 

The  interior  is  arranged  with  the  most 
modern  improved  machinery,  and  every 
convenience  for  the  workmen,  with  a  due 
regard  to  the  health  and  comfort  of  the 
men  in  way  of  ventilation  and  protection 
from  dust. 

This  firm  employ  at  present  about  70 
men,  to  whom  they  pay  annuallj'  about 
$oO,000.  There  is  about  100,000  feet  of 
lumber  used  iu  the  pump  and  furniture 
departments,  and  15,000  feet  of  veneer- 
ing. Amount  of  capital  invested  in 
buildings,  machinery,  &c.,  is  $100,000. 
The  sales  amountj.to  over  $125,000  per 
annum. 

The  furniture  made  at  this  establish- 
ment is  equal  to  any  in  the  United  States, 
and  comprises  every  grade  of  chamber, 
dining  room,  kitchen  or  office  furniture; 
arid  at  prices  that  will  compare  favora- 
bly with  that  of  eastern  markets.  The 
pumps  are  of  a  superior  quality,  and 
have  an  enviable  reputation  and  large 
sale  throuiihout  the  west. 

WAGON  AND    CARRIAGE    MANU- 
FACTORIES. 

This  branch  of  business  is  carried  on 
quite  extensively  in  Decatur,  there  being 
three  large  establishments  who  make  the 
manufacture  of  wagons  and  carriages  a 
speciality.  There  are  a  number  of  wag- 
on and  blacksmith  shops  which  give  con- 
siderable attention  to  new  work,  as  well 
as  general  repair  business 

Messrs.  Gahman  &  Wicks  have  one 
of  the  most  complete  establishments  in 
the  city,  and  make  every  description  of 
wagons  and  carriages,  and  of  a  superior 
quality,  as  their  rapid  increase  of  busi- 
ness bears  evidence. 

N.  Hamsher  ik  Son,  have  the  largest 
shops,  and  turn  out  an  immense  amount 
of  work  in  way  of  fine  carriages,  bug- 
gies, as  well  as  wagons,  which  are  sold 
throuiih  Macon  and  adjoining  counties, 
and  are  considered  equal  iu  quality  and 
prices,  to  that  of  the  best  eastern  mak- 
ers. 

Taylor  &  Bradley,  have  also  an  exten- 
sive establisliment,  formerly  carried  on 
by  the  veteran  wagon  and  carriage  mak- 
er, Jos.  Athons,  who  still  resides  in  Df- 
calur,  and  gives  some  attention  to  this 
branch  of  trade,  but  mostly  to  repair 
business. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


37 


PLANING  MILL,  SASH,  DOOR   AND 
BLIND  MANUFACTORY. 

The  Planing  Mill  and  Lumber  Yard  of 
Messrs.  El  wood  &  Co.,  was  started  in 
1865,  who  by  close  attention  to,  and  a 
thorough  knowledge  of  their  business, 
gained  for  themselves  the  reputation  of 
being  one  of  the  most  successful  and  re- 
liable firms  of  Decatur.  Their  mill  is 
furnished  with  all  the  usual  kinds  of  ma- 
chinery found  in  a  first  class  manufacto- 
ry. They  handle  over  200,000  feet  of 
lumber,  annually,  which  is  sold  at  their 
yard,  or  made  into  doors,  sash,  Olinds, 
&c.  They  give  employment  to  22  men, 
to  whom  they  yay  upwards  of  $13,000  a 
year.  Their  annual  sales  average  $100,- 
000  per  annum. 


WOOLEN  MILLS. 

The  Decatur  Woolen  Mills  were  estab- 
lished in  1859,  by  Messrs.  Boyd,  Haskell, 
&  Co.,  the  present  proprietors.  The  firm 
consists  ot  W.  H.  Boyd,  L.  C.  Haskill  & 
Wui.  J.  Myers,  who,  with  the  assistance 
of  three  workmen,  constituted  the  early 
working  force,  and  run  but  one  machine. 
Owing  to  the  industry  and  energy  of  the 
proprietors,  also  the  large  increase  of 
ousiness,.  they  soon  added  another  ma- 
chine. In  186s,  the  establishment  was 
entirely  destroyed  by  fire,  and  although 
slightly  insured,  the  firm  immediately 
erected  the  present  extensive  buildings. 
The  main  building  is  142x40  ft.,  three 
stories  high,  with  an  Ly2xo6lt.,  and  run 
720  spindles,  11  looms,  2  sets  of  cards. 
The  present  capacity  is  sufficient  to  man- 
ufacture 90,000  lbs  of  wool  per  annum. 
There  is  100,000  yards  of  flannels,  jeans, 
itec,  20,000  pounds  of  yarns.  Their 
yearly  sales  amount  to  $15,000. 

The  new  building  is  calculated  to  run 
double  the  present  amount  of  machinery, 
which  will  ue  added  at  no  distant  day. 
■f  he  mill  is  under  the  supervision  of  Mr. 
J.  Myers,  the  tenior  member  ot  the  firm, 
whose  thorough  knowledge  of  the  busi- 
ness is  a  guarantee  of  the  future  suc- 
cets  of  the  enterprise. 


FLOURING  MILLS. 

The  Flouring  Mill  owned  by  Mr.  Geo. 
Priest,  is  on  the  corner  of  East  Main  and 
the  Illinois  Central  Railroad  track  ;  was 
established  in  the  year  18.5(1,  by  Henkle 
&  Condit.  Mr.  Priest  becoming  a  part 
owner  in  18(51,  and  during  the  present 
year  purchased  the  entire  interest.  The 
i)uildiug  is  a  large  substantial  brick  edi- 
fice, with  storage  capacity  for  aijouL  35,- 
000  bushels  of  grain.  The  mill  has  lour 
run  of  stone,  capable  of  grinding  140 
bushels   per  day.      The    capital    in  the 


building,  machinery,  &c.,  Is  about  $33,- 
000.  There  is  ground  at  this  mill  about 
7,500 bbls.  of  flour,  annually.  The  sf.les 
amount  to  $100,000  per  annum.  The 
products  •of  this  mill  have  acquired  a 
standard  reputation,  and  find  a  ready 
sale  in  eastern  markets. 

The  Flouring  Mill  of  J.  M.  Raney  & 
Co.,  was  established  in  1870,  and  is  lo- 
cated near  the  T.  W.  A  W.  R.W.  It  has 
three  run  of  burs,  and  a  capacity  for 
grinding  75  bbls.  of  flour  per  day.  Cap- 
ital invested,  about  $20,000;  and  sales 
amount  to  nearly  $500,000  yearly. 

D.  S.  Shellenbarger  &  Co.'s  Mill,  on 
the  T,  W.  &  W.  R.  W.,  is  a  fine  brick 
liuilding.  Has  f-ur  run  of  burs,  and  a 
capacity  for  grindinir  about  50,000  bus., 
annually.  Has  $40,000  capital  invested, 
and  its  sales  amount  to  $125,000  per  an- 
num. 


LINSEED  OIL  MILL. 

The  Decatur  Linseed  Oil  Mill  was  es- 
tablished in  1,867,  and  is  located  on  East 
Main  street,  near  I.  C.  R.  R.  It  has  one 
set  crackers,  one  set  temporary  stones, 
two  heaters  and  two  pt'esses.  Gives  em- 
ployment to  ten  men,  has  a  capital  of 
$30^000,  and  sales  amount  to  $75,000  an- 
nually. 

BREWERY. 

The    Brewery  Business  is  carried  on 

quite  extensively  in  Decatur,  by  Messrs. 
Harpstrite  &  Schlaudermau.  It  was 
commenced  in  185(5,  by  Messrs.  Richard 
&  Kahler,  with  a  capacity  of  only  6  bar- 

I  reis  per  day. 

I  .Mr.  G.  Harpstrite  purchased  the  brew- 
ery, in  1859,  and  soon  after  formed  a  co- 
partnership with  Mr.  Schlaudermau, jand 
continued  the  business  in  the  old  build- 
ing until  1866,  when  they  erected  the 
Ijresent  building  and  occupied  the  same. 
The  new  building  is  70x28  ft,  five  etories 
in  hight,  with  very  deep  and  capacious 
cellars.  Anadditional  buildinjr 40x75  ft., 
is  connected  with  the  brewery,  and  is 
used  for  an  ice  house,  and  there  is  put  up 
by  the  proprietors,  100,000  tons  of  ice, 
annually.  The  full  capacity  of  the  brew- 
ery at  present  is  65  bbls.  per  day.  About 
4,(XX)  bbls.  of  beer  is  produced,  annually, 
using  10,000  bushels  of  malt.  The  beer 
made  here  has  a  wide  reputation  on  ac- 
count of  its  superior  qualities  ;  and  a 
large  amount  is  shipped  to  other  points 
on  the  railroad. 

The  old  brewery  is  used  for  a  malt 
house;  the  cellars  lor  storing  wine,  and 
have  a  storage  capacity  of  3,000  barrels. 
Tliere  is  about  9  acres  of  ground  connect- 
ed with  the  brewery,  which  is  very  valu- 
able, on  account  of  its  adaptation  to  the 
present  business  purposes.  The  water 
is  of  most  excellent  quality,  and  in  un- 
limited quantity. 


38 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


MARBLE  DEALERS. 

Strolm  &  Waggoner,  established  1861, 
as  Strolm  &  Co.,  and  so  continued  until 
about  4  years  since,  when  Mr.  J.  W. 
Waggoner  became  a  member  of  the  firm, 
and  the  business  was  quietly  extended 
and  has  continued  to  increase  up  to  the 
present  time.  This  lirm  do  a  very  ex- 
tensive business,  one  of  the  largest  in 
Central  Illinois,  sending  a  great  deal  of 
work  to  distant  parts  of  this  State  and 
adjoining  States.  They  employ  a  large 
force  of  skillful  workmen,  and  manufac- 
ture monuments,  head  stones,  all  kinds 
of  furniture  tops,  and  also  give  special 
attention  to  all  kinds  of  iron  fence 
works. 

Penniwell,  Grindall  &  Co.,  established 
1866.  The  members  of  this  firm  are  all 
practical  workmen.  Their  trade  and 
reputation  is  not  a  local  one,  such  is  the 
character  of  their  work.  Their  business 
extends  to  all  parts  of  the  State,  and 
they  have  frequent  orders  from  adjoining 
States.  There  are  specimens  of  work  at 
their  establishment  that  cannot  be  sur- 
passed for  skill  and  beauty  of  finish,  in 
the  United  States. 


HARDWARE. 

Morehouse  &  Wells  commenced  the 
hardware  business  in  the  store  they  now 
occupy.  No.  7  East  Main  Street,  thirteen 
years  ago,  and  now  have  a  large  and 
prosperous  trade.  Their  stock  of  hard- 
ware, stoves,  iron,  tinware,  belting,  wag- 
on wood  work,  paints,  oils,  and  farming 
tools,  is  large  and  complete.  Buying  for 
cash,  direct  from  importers  and  manu- 
facturers, they  are  enabled  to  supply 
their  wholesale  customers  with  the  same 
quality  of  goods  that  they  are  daily 
handling  in  their  retail  trade,  at  prices 
comparing  favorably  with  St.  Louis  or 
Chicago.  Instead  of  mentioning  the 
fact  of  their  being  the  oldest  established 
hardware  house  in  the  city,  and  of  the 
large  amount  of  goods  sold  in  the  past, 
this  firm  seem  to  have  an  eye  on  the  fu- 
ture, and  to  expect  success  only  as  they 
continue  to  meet  the  wants  of  their  cus- 
tomers with  goods  of  good  quality  and 
at  low  prices. 

Close  &  Griswold.  This  firm  was  orig- 
inally Close,  Griswold  &  Co.,  established 
five  years  ago.  Starting  at  a  time  of 
Sreat  competition,  and  although  there 
were  other  and  longer  established  houses 
here  at  tlie  time,  they  now  rank  equal  to 
any  other  hardware  house  in  the  city. 
This  house  deals  very  largely  in  furnaces 
adapted  to  public  and  private  buildings, 
suitable  for  burning  soft  coal.  Also, 
stoves  of  great  variety.  They  keep  a 
large  variety  of  wagon  stocks,  and  every 
description  of  shelf  goods  and  agricultu- 
ral implements,  which  they  ofler  for  cash 
at  low  figures 


R.  C.  Crocker,  dealer  in  haadware, 
stoves,  nails,  etc.,  successor  Tto  F.  J.  Tay- 
lor, one  of  the  oldest  established  hard- 
ware houses  in  Decatur,  occupying  the 
same  stand  where  first  started.  Mr. 
Crocker  but  recently  succeeded  the  firm, 
and  has  already  secured  the  confidence  of 
the  patrons  of  the  old  house.  Most  of 
the  employees  of  the  former  proprietor 
have  been  retained,  including  Mr.  Wood, 
one  of  the  most  popular  and  reliable 
salesmen  and  efficient  bookkeepers  in 
the  city. 


DRY  GOODS. 

Decatur,  Illinois,  is  acknowledged  as  a 
lively,  go-ahead,  thriving  business  city, 
by  all  visitors  from  different  sections  of 
our  country.  As  a  Chicagoan  said,  De- 
catur merchants  are  "  bound  to  sell" 
goods,  which  fact  accounts  for  the  estab- 
lishment of  wholesale  dry  goods  houses, 
which  have  become  permanent  institu- 
tions within  the  past  few  years.  Among 
the  foremost,  and  as  pioneers  in  the 
trade,  stands  S.  D.  Ludden,  of  the  firm 
of  S.  D.  Ludden  &  Co.,  No.  13  East  Main 
Street,  who,  with  James  Forrester,  open- 
ed the  wholesale  dry  goods  house  in  Jno. 
Ulrich's  new  block,  in  July,  1868.  After 
two-and-a-half  years  of  successful  trade, 
the  firm  of  Forrester  &  Ludden  dissolv- 
ed, January  1, 1871,  and  in  April  follow- 
ing the  new  firm  of  S.  D.  Ludden  &  Co., 
opened  their  store  at  No.  13.  East  Main 
Street,  as  wholesale  and  retail  dealers  in 
dry  goods  and  notions.  Mr.  Ludden's 
perfect  knowledge  of  the  dry  goods  bu- 
siness, his  long  acquaintance  with  the 
best  merchants  of  the  eastern  States, 
and  especially  in  New  York  city,  as  well 
as  in  Philadelphia  and  Boston,  is  the 
key  which  unlocks  the  mystery  of  suc- 
cess. For,  to  be  able  to  make  good  pur- 
chases, a  good  acquaintance  becomes 
necessary.  It  is  a  maxim  that  "a  good 
purchase  is  easily  sold  "  Tha  firm  of  S. 
D.  Ludden  &  Co.,  have  the  abilities  and 
re(j^uirements  necessary  to  a  successful 
career  before  a  discriminating  public, 
and  that  same  puolic  is  not  slow  in  ap- 
preciating the  many  inducements  offered 
to  them. 

Jas.  Forrester,  of  J.  F.  &  Co.,  former- 
ly of  N.  Y.  City,  where  he  has  been  in 
the  importing  commission  business,  and 
for  the  last  12  years  in  business  on  his 
own  account,  as  Trevier  &  Forester,  «fc 
Jas.  Forester  &  Co.  Mr.  Ranlet,  of  this 
firm,  was  formerly  with  J.  F.  it  Co.,  of 
N.  Y.  Mr.  F.  has  been  located  here  for 
the  past  three  years,  where,  with  his 
long  experience  in  the  dry  goods  busi- 
ness, with  his  unusual  facilities  for  buy- 
ing goods  cheap,  besides  the  large  busi- 
ness of  old  customers  who  formerly 
traded  with  him  in  New  York,  they  have 
succeeded  in  building  up  a  prosperous 
business  in  the  jobbing  trade.     The  store 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


39 


is  conveniently  arranged  for  business, 
having  three  distinct  departments.  The 
1st  floor  Retail  Room  ;  2d  floor  for  Blank- 
ets, Shawls,  &c.,  3d  floor  40x80  as  Job- 
bing Room.  Their  business  is  coostant- 
ly  increasing  ;  the  sales  this  year  will 
amount  to  nearly  $200,000. 

Thos.  A.  Gehrman,  dealer  in  American 
and  Foreign  Dry  Goods,  Millinery,  &c., 
keeps  his  establishment  always  full,  and 
of  the  latest  style,  from  the  finest  to  the 
cheapest  in  quality.  This  establishment 
is  one  of  the  most  reliable  places  of  bu- 
siness in  Decatur,  and  the  business  of  the 
house  is  rapidly  increasing,  and  it  is  the 
aim  of  the  proprietor  to  hold  his  present 
regular  and  extensive  trade,  by  low  prices 
and  fair  dealing. 


'•  REVOLUTION  "  DOLLAR  STORE. 

Kirkman  &  Co.,  recently  started,  are 
men  of  extensive  business  experience, 
and  giving  special  attention  to  this  pop- 
ular system  for  sale  of  Fancy  Goods  of 
every  description  and  variety,  and  noth- 
ing in  price  above  one  dollar.  Every 
one  should  call  at  this  popular  resort  for 
bargains. 


GROCERIES. 

L.  B.  C.  Lefllngwell,  dealer  in  Provis- 
ions and  Staple  and  Fancy  Groceries,  No. 
9  South  Water  Street.  Mr.  Leffingwell 
has  been  in  the  grocery  business  for  five 
years,  most  of  the  time  at  his  present 
well  known  stand.  He  is  perfectly  reli- 
able, and  gives  you  the  worth  of  your 
money  every  time.  He  is  now  doing  a 
large  business. 

H.  Lyon,  formerly  Lyon  &  Masterman, 
dealer  in  Groceries  and  Produce,  started 
in  business  here,  1868.  All  kinds  coun- 
try produce  bought,  and  the  higest  cash 
price  paid  for  the  same.  Mr.  Lyon  keeps 
constantly  on  hand  a  large  stock  of  for- 
eign and  domestic  groceries,  fine  fruits 
and  flour,  at  the  lowest  market  prices. 

LAMPS  AND  LAMP  GOODS. 

G.  Wallace,  well  known  as  the  "  Non- 
Explosive  Petrolium  Fluid  Man."  He 
makes  a  speciality  of  Danforth's  Petro- 
lium Fluid,  a  new  article  of  Petrolium 
Oil.  It  gives  a  clear  light,  far  prefera- 
ble and  cheaper  than  the  best  gas.  Mr. 
Wallace  deals  in  all  styles  of  lamps  and 
lamp  goods.  Store  is  No.  14,  Central 
Block. 

GAS  FITTING. 

Mr.  J.  W.  Butman,  the  eflScient  Super- 
intendent of  the  "Decatur  Gas  Light 
and  Coke  Co."  has  opened  an  office  at 
No.  5,  north  side  New  Sfiuare,  for  the 
sale  of  gas  and    steam  pipes,    fittings, 


shades,  &c.,  where  he  will  always  be 
found,  unless  engaged  at  the  gas  works, 
ready,  with  experienced  workmen,  to 
attend  promptly  to  all  orders  in  his  line, 
and  at  the  lowest  city  rates.  Give  him  a 
call,  as  he  guarantees  satisfaction. 

REAL  ESTATE  AND  INSURANCE. 

Warren  &  Durfee,  Real  Estate,  Title, 
Abstracts,  and  General  Insurance  Ag'ts, 
are  the  oldest  agents  in  Macon  county, 
established  nearly  15  years.  Is  the  only 
abstract  office,  and  are  the  originators 
and  proprietors  of  the  popular  continu- 
ous and  self-corrective  system  of  title 
abstracts,  now  extensively  used  in  the 
Western  States. 

Kinney  &  Wuensch,  Real  Estate  and 
Insurance,  have  been  established  about 
2  years,  making  the  business  of  real  es- 
tate a  speciality,  and  have  built  up  a 
very  large  business.  They  are  agents  for 
the  North  German  Lloyd  Line,  Anchor 
and  Cunard,  and  several  other  best  Eu- 
ropean Lines  of  Steamers. 


WHOLESALE  LIQUOR  HOUSES. 

The  wholesale  liquor  house  of  B.  B. 
Richards  is  the  oldest  in  Decatur  and 
was  established  as  a  wholesale  house  by 
the  proprietor  in  186.5.  Mr.  Richards 
makes  a  speciality  of  pure  Kentucky 
whiskies,  and  all  his  selections  are  made 
personally,  and  from  a  long  experience 
in  the  business  he  is  enabled  to  offer  the 
public  the  best  brand  of  liquors,  which 
will  be  found  at  his  saleroom,  South 
Main  street. 

D.  W.  Brennaman.  Established  in 
1866.  Wholesale  and  retail.  Recently 
enlarged  facilities  for  business  with 
additional  room  and  stock.  Mr.  Bren- 
neman  gives  special  attention  to  the 
wholesale  department  and  offers  to  the 
trade  one  of  the  largest  stocks  in  the 
state  outside  of  Chicago,  and  at  prices 
eqally  as  low  as  in  Chicago  or  St.  Louis. 
The  character  of  the  goods  of  this  house 
are  strictly  No.  1,  equal  to  any  found 
elsewhere. 

AGRICULTURAL  IMPLEMENTS. 

Chambers  &  Durfee  have  the  largest 
general  stock  of  farming  implements  and 
machinery  and  garden  seeds  in  central 
Illinois.  They  enjoy  special  facilities  in 
their  line,  being  the  representatives  of 
the  Decatur  Agricultural  Works.  The 
members  of  this  firm  are  able  residents 
of  the  city,  and  have  contributed  much 
to  her  present  business  prosperity,  and 
deserve  a  good  share  of  public  patronage. 

Murry  &  Parks,  (orignally  Parks  & 
Murry,)  are  the  oldest  dealers  in  this 
line  in  the  city,  starting  in  1861,  and 
have  built  up  a  safe  and  very  exiensire 


40 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


trade.  Their  place  of  business  is  in  the 
Priest  House  block,  on  North  Water 
street. 

C.  W.  Aiken  has  been  in  the  business 
about  five  years,  and  besides  represent- 
ing some  of  the  best  manufactories  of 
agricultural  implements,  is  himself  the 
inventor  and  manufacturer  of  many  val- 
uable machines.  His  warehouse  is  near 
the  old  square. 

PORK  PACKERS  AND  BUTCHERS. 

Mr.  John  Imboden  was  one  of  the  first 
to  engage  in  the  pork  packing  and  butcli- 
ering  trade  in  this  city,  begining  business 
here  in  1855,  and  now  does  the  largest 
pork  packing  business  in  the  city.  He  has 
a  large  meal  market  situated  over  South 
Main  Street,  where  there  can  always  be 
found  every  variety  of  fresh  and  pickled 
meats. 

S.  G.  Efiler,  dealer  in  all  kinds  of  fresh 
and  pieklea  meats,  sausage,  lard,  &c. 
Mr.  Etfler  has  had  ten  years  experience 
iu  butchering,  lormerly  with  Imboden 
and  has  the  reputation  of  furnishing  the 
best  quality  in  the  best  manner. 

Denz  &  Danzeisen.  This  firm  com- 
menced business  in  this  city  two  years 
since  ;  by  close  attention  to  the  same, 
with  a  constant  endeavor  to  furnish  their 
patrons  with  the  best  quality  of  meats 
and  full  weights,  they  have  established 
a  good  trade  and  no  doubt  will  retain  it. 


PHYSICIANS. 

Chas-  Chenoweth,  M.  D.,  dealer  in 
Drugs,  Medicines,  &c.  Mr.  Chenoweth 
is  agent  for  the  celebrated  California 
Wiue,  and  San  Joaquin  Wine  Bitters, 
which  are  highly  recommended  by  the 
best  physicians  of  the  country,  for  their 
purity  and  peculiar  medicinal  qualities. 

Dr.  Barnes,  after  graduating  and  re- 
ceiving the  degree  of  Master  of  Arts 
from  Dartsmouih  College,  studied  med- 
icine in  Philadelphia,  and  graduated  at 
the  Jeflferson  medical  College.  During 
the  war  he  was  appointed  Surgeon  of  the 
llOth  Regiment  Illinois  Volunteers,  and 
served  in  that  capacity  until  Ihe  close  ot 
the  rebellion,  in  18G5,  when  he  returned 
to  Decatur,  and  resumed  the  practice  ot 
mi-'dicine  with  his  old  partner,  under  the 
firm  name  of  Moore  &  Barnes. 

Dr.  Moore,  the  senior  partner,  gradu- 
ated in  the  medical  department  of  the 
St.  Louis  University,  March,  1853.  Com- 
menced the  practice  of  his  profession  in 
Carlyle,  Clinton  county,  111.,  the  same 
year,  wlaere  he  remained  engaged  in  the 
active  duties  of  his  profession  up  to 
March,  1850,  when  he  removed  to  Deca- 
tur, Illinois,  where  he  has  been  a  leading 
practitioner  ever  since.  Early  in  the 
late  war  he  was  appointed  Surgeon  of  the 


115th  Illinois  Vol.  Infantry,  in  which  he 
served  with  credit  to  himself  and  great 
satisfaction  to  the  Regiment.  Soon  after 
entering  the  army  he  took  high  rank  as 
a  medical  officer,  and  was  placed  in 
charge  of  the  large  hospitals  at  Danville, 
Kentucky.  He  shared  largely  the  es- 
teem and  confidence  of  his  commanding 
general. 

DENTIST. 

Dr.  G.  T.  Shartel,  so  well  known  to 
the  residents  of  Macon  county  on  ac- 
count of  the  great  success  in  his  profes- 
sion during  his  residence  in  Decatur. 
With  a  thorough  medical  education,  he 
has  had  extensive  experience,  secured 
by  a  large  practice,  and  avails  himself 
01  all  the  most  valuable  improvements  in 
his  business.  The  fact  of  his  business 
constantly  increasing  is  evidences  of  his 
reputation,  and  a  due  appreciation  by 
the  public.  Dr.  Shartel  is  prepared  to 
perform  work  of  all  kinds,  either  in  me- 
chanical or  opperative  dentistry. 

ATTORNEYS. 

The  bar  of  Decatur  will  compare  fa- 
vorably with  that  of  any  other  city  in 
the  state,  and  many  of  its  members  have 
a  national  reputation  and  have  occu- 
pied prominent  places  of  public  trust. 
We  shall  mention  but  a  few  of  the  lead- 
ing firms  of  the  city  : 

One  of  the  most  prominent  firms  is 
Nelson,  Roby  &  Pedagogue,  w-ho 
have  bad  an  extensive  practice  through- 
out the  state,  and  as  they  deserve,  have 
the  confidence  of  all  who  employ  them. 
Mr.  Nelson,  of  this  firm,  is  a  member  of 
the  present  general  assembly,  and  is  con- 
siderea  one  of  its  most  useful  and  ablest 
members  and  to  be  one  of  the  rising  men 
of  Illinois. 

Eden  &  Oden  are  considered  one  of  the 
leading  firms  of  Decatur  and  have  a  very 
large  bus  iness.  Mr.  Eden,  the  senior 
member  of  this  firm,  has  practiced  in  this 
circuit  eighteen  years,  and  has  the  repu- 
tation of  being  one  of  the  best  legal  ad- 
visers in  Illinois.  He  was  a  candidate 
for  governor  of  this  state  three  years 
since.  Mr.  Oden,  of  this  firm,  has  re- 
sided here  five  years  and  enjoys  a  repu- 
tation for  fine  abilities  as  a  lawyer. 

J.  M.  Irwin,  although  not  one  of  the 
oldest  praclicing  lawyers,  j'ct  as  a  legal 
adviser  he  has  but  few  equals  at  the  De- 
catur bar,  and  his  large  increasing  prac- 
tice is  evidence  of  his  success. 

Bunn  &  Bunn.  This  firm  is  one  of 
considerable  talent  and  deservedly  occu- 
py a  prominent  place  at  the  Decatur 
bar. 

Mr.  Ewing.    There  is  no  more  popu- 
ar  or  reliable  lawyer  in  the  city,  and  has 
a  high  position    among  the  profession 
and  is  doing  a  good  business. 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


41 


Arthur  J.  Gallaher,  at  present  judge 
of  the  Scventecntli  judicial  circuit,  aud 
has  but  fesv  if  any  superiors  at  the  bar 
iu  Illinois.  His  opinions  always  sound, 
and  his  decisions  on  matters  of  constitu- 
tional law  have  given  him  great  prom- 
inence throughout  this  and  adjuiuing 
states. 


CLOCKS  AND  JEWELRY. 

Birely  &  Abbott,  deal  extensively  in 
fine  jewelry  of  every  description,  select- 
ed wilh  great  care  Irom  the  largest  east- 
ern houses.  His  stocli  compii^L-s  every- 
thing Usually  liept  iu  a  tirst-class  esub- 
lishuic-nt,  iucludiug  the  latest,  richest, 
most  novel,  fashionable  jewelry,  and  sil- 
ver ware.  Particular  attention  is  ijiVL-n 
to  ri-pairing  tine  jewelry,  watches  and 
clock-;  and  being  pracLic.il,  watch  and 
clock,  workmen,  give  this  branch  person- 
al attention. 

BOOT  AND  SHOE  MANUFACTURER 
AND  DEALER. 

Geo.  F.  Wessells  is  the  oldest  dealer  in 
the  boot  and  shoe  line  in  the  ciiy,  hav- 
ing commenced  here  in  1853.  Mr.  Wes- 
sells' business  has  been  one  of  steady  in- 
crease from  the  bfginiug,  and  at  present 
he  is  the  largest  dealer  and  has  the  best 
selected  stock  in  the  city,  purchased  from 
the  most  reliable  makers,  expressly  for 
city  and  country  trade.  Mr.  W.  is  one 
of  the  most  prominent  and  valuable  cit- 
izens, and  justly  entitled  to  the  position 
he  holds  among  the  business  men  of  De- 
catur. 


BOOKS  AND  STATIONERY. 

D.  Espy  &  Co.  This  house  was  first 
established  in  1856,  by  C.  C.  Burroughs, 
who  was  succeeded  by  Hostetler  &  Bro. 
and  T.  H.  Allen,  and  in  1870  by  the  pres- 
ent firm,  consisting  of  D.  Espy  and  Allen 
Litsenburger.  Mr.  Litsenburger  has  re- 
sided in  Decatur  for  ten  years,  and  has 
secured  the  confidence  of  the  entire  com- 
munity. With  the  largest  and  best  se- 
lected stock  in  the  city  in  their  line,  con- 
sisting of  books,  stationery,  paper  hang- 
ings, picture  frames,  &c.  Also  agents 
for  Weed's  Sewing  Machines.  And 
their  large  and  increasing  business, 
wilh  a  continuance  of  the  patronage  of 
the  old  house,  shows  the  high  regard 
held  for  this  firm. 

W.  E.  Wilson.  This  enterprising  and 
popular  house,  known  by  many  as  the 
'Corner  Store,'  has  one  of  the  best  stocks 
of  books,  stationery,  jewelry,  and  every- 
thing usually  found  in  a  house  of  this 
character.  He  has  also  a  news  depot, 
where  the  latest  papers  and  magazines 
may  be  found. 


DRUGGISTS. 

Hubbard  &  Swearinger  have  one  of  the 
oldest  and  best  drug  houses  in  Decatur. 
They  keep  a  well  selected  stock  of  drugs, 
chemical.-,  fancy  goods  and  perfumeiies. 
They  give  special  attention  to  compound- 
ing prescriptions,  and  at  all  hours,  iu  the 
most  careful  manner. 


MUSIC  DEALERS. 

G.  F.  Hargis,  is  one  of  the  oldest  deal- 
ers in  musical  instruments  in  the  city. 
Has  always  on  hand  a  full  supply  of  Fi- 
auos  and  Organs,  by  the  best  makers  in 
the  CiiUiilrx,  including  C'hiekering,  Ual- 
lut,  Davis  &  Ci>.,  aiiU  Knabe's  Pianos, 
iVlasiU)  &,  Hamlin,  and  tiinitli  &  Co.'s 
Cabinet  Oigaus.  Mr.  Hargis  also  deals 
in  the  laieoi  and  choicest  publications  of 
American  and  foreign  music,  and  having 
an  able  as;istant  always  at  Lis  rooms, 
every  one  can  depend  on  receiving 
prompt  attention.  All  orders  by  mail 
will  be  as  carefully  attended  to  a=  if  par- 
ties were  present.  Instruments  sold  by 
this  house  are  warranted  and  kept  in  re- 
pair. 

Fish  &  Foster.  This  firm,  favorably 
known  to  all  loverspf  music  throughout 
Macon  county,  are  successors  to  Lapliam 
&  Crissey,  and  have  as  large  and  well  se- 
lected a  stock  of  music  and  of  all  kinds 
of  musical  instruments  as  can  be  found 
in  Central  Illinois.  Prof.  Foster,  of  this 
firm,  was  formerly  connected  with  one  of 
the  largest  music  houses  East,  which 
Secures  to  the  firm  special  facilities  in 
the  purchase  of  their  goods,  and  they 
give  their  patrons  the  benefit  of  them. 
Prof.  Foster  has  had  ten  years  experi- 
ence as  a  teacher,  and  he  has  been  re- 
cently secured  by  the  Decatur  Conserv- 
atory of  Music,  as  instructor  of  vocal 
music. 


BANKERS. 

J.  Millikin&  Co.'s  bank  was  establish- 
ed in  1861.  The  members  of  this  firm 
consist  of  J.  Millikin  and  J.  R.  Gorin, 
who  are  old  residents  of  the  city,  and 
always  enjoyed  the  confidence  of  the 
community,  and  rank  among  the  best 
business  men  of  Decatur.  This  bank 
deals  largely  in  foreign  exchange,  and 
also  gives  some  attention  to  real  estate 
loans,  and  their  business  done  is  quite 
large,  and  considered  perfectly  safe. 

There  are  two  other  banks  in  Decatur, 
one  conducted  by  Peddecord  &  Bur- 
rows, the  other  by  Smiths,  Hammer  & 
Co.,  both  doing  an  extensive  business, 
and  their  officers  are  well  known  busi- 
ness men. 


6 


•i2 


HISTORY    OF    DECATUR. 


SEWING  MACHINES. 

William  W.  Lapham  is  agent  for  the 
celebrated  Singer  Machines,  of  which 
over  4U,000  more  were  sold,  in  1870,  than 
any  oilier  make,  which  is  of  itself  the 
best  possible  recommendation  for  the 
machine. 

D.  Espy  &  Co.,  are  agents  for  the 
Weed  machine.  It  is  one  of  the  most 
popular  machines,  being  simple  in  con- 
struction, easy  to  operate,  having  a 
straight  needle,  with  perfect  feed  and 
tension. 

BRAMBLE'S  PLEASURE  GARDEN. 

The  popular  place  of  resort,  known  as 
Bramble's  Pleasure  Garden,  is  owned  by 
W.  H.  Bramble,  Esq.,  who  is  an  old  resi- 
dent of  Decatur,  aud  has  always  contrib- 
uted largely  to  the  promotion  of  public 
enterprise  and  welfare  of  the  city. 
These  gardens  are  located  in  the  south- 
western part  of  the  city,  and  consist  of 
six  and  one-half  acres  of  ground,  pos- 
sessing natural  attractions  of  a  peculiar 
and  romantic  character,  to  which  Mr. 
B.  has  added  many  improvements. 
Among  them  an  attractive  building  tit- 
ted  up  with  handsome  parlors,  ice  cream 
saloon,  also  a  large  bath  house,  fountains, 
swings,  &c.  Thereiijs  an  unfailing  spring 
of  the  purest  water  on  the  grounds, 
which  has  been  analyzed  by  Dr.  Cheno- 
weth,  and  found  to  possess  largely  prop- 
erties of  a  medicinal  character.  This, 
together  with  an  abundance  of  shade 
trees  on  the  grounds,  make  it  a  desirable 
resort  either  for  sabbath  schools,  relig- 
ious societies  and  other  organizations  or 
any  private  individual.  There  is  no  in- 
toxicating liquors  or  beverage  sold  or 
allowed  on  the  grounds.  Mr.  Bramble's 
residence,  a  fine  large  brick  building,  is 
situated  on  a  rising  elevation  at  the  west 
end  of  the  grounds,  where  any  one  de- 
siring to  spend  a  lew  days  or  weeks  in 
search  of  health,  rest  or  pleasure,  can 
secure  rooms  and  board,  and  have  the 
use  of  the  grounds  and  house.  During 
the  winter  there  is  a  skating  park  cover- 
ing two  acres  of  ground,  where  all  lov- 
ers of  this  delightful  pastime  can  enjoy 
themselves. 

Mr.  Bramble  has  achieved  a  national 
reputation  by  his  valuable  inventions  of 
"Self-regulating  measuring  scales,"  and 
"Post  Office  Box." 


CROCKERY,  GLASSWARE,  &C. 

R.  Liddle,  deals  in  crockery,  glassware, 
and  in  fact,  in  almost  everything  neces- 
sary to  the  complete  lurnishing  of  a 
house,  including  stoves,  tinware,  plated 
ware  and  cutlery.  The  crockery  and 
glassware  department  is  distinct  from 
the  other,  having  recently  been  removed 
to  new  and   commodious    quarters  on 


North  Water  Street.  There  is  no  more 
attractive  store  in  Decatur.  fThe  goods 
are  bought  of  importers  and  manufac- 
turers, and  in  such  large  quantities  that 
Mr.  Liddle  secures  the  largest  discounts 
from  regular  rates,  and  is  enabled  to 
offer  greater  inducements  in  way  of 
prices  than  smaller  houses. 


GENERAL  AGENTS. 

Wood  &  Montgomery,  general  insur- 
ance and  real  estate  agents,  are  both 
men  of  extensive  experience  and  are  de- 
servedly popular.  This  firm  represents 
many  of  the  largest  fire  insurauwe  com- 
panies in  the  United  States,  and  which 
for  security  and  promptness  cannot  be 
excelled  in  the  world,  representing 
about  $15,000,000  of  cash  assets.  They 
are  also  general  agents  for  the  Widows' 
and  Orphans'  Life  Insurance  Company, 
of  New  York.  Besides  their  extensive 
insurance  business,  Messrs.  Wood  & 
Montgomery  give  considerable  attention 
to  buying  and  selling  real  estate,  paying 
taxes,  and  all  business  pertaining  to' the 
real  estate  agency. 

Crawford  &  Griswold  are  general 
agents  of  the  Commonwealth  Life  Insu- 
rance Company,  of  New  York.  This 
Co.,  has  already  taken  the  front  rank 
among  the  best  life  insurance  companies, 
although  among  the  youngest ;  and  as 
evidence  of  its  purpose  to  maintain 
this  position,  it  has  already  chosen  as 
President  Mr.  Seth  E.  Thomas,  whose 
name  is  a  favorite  household  word, 
associated  as  it  is  with  the  popular  and 
reliable  Seth  Thomas  Clocks.  "  Its 
directors  embrace  some  of  the  ablest, 
strongest  and  most  active  business  men 
in  the  community,"  says  the  New  York 
Independent.  Mr.  Morse,  its  Vice  Presi- 
dent, is  a  graduate  of  a  life  office,  and  is 
exactly  fitted  for  this  position.  Mr. 
Homes,  Secretary  and  Actuary,  is  from 
the  New  York  State  Insurance  Depart- 
ment, and  recently  resigned  to  take  this 
place.  We  give  some  of  the  features  of 
this  Company:  All  cash  ;  non-forfeiture 
incontestable  from  date  ;  no  restrictions 
on  travel  or  occupation  ;  30  days'  grace 
allowed.  It  has  established  a  Decatur 
Branch,  with  the  following  officers  : 

OFFICERS. 

Wm.  L.  Hammer President 

Geo.  Priest Vice  President 

A.  P.  Griswold Secretary 

R.  P.  Lytic,  ) 

J.  A.  Aikraan,   M.  D.,  >■ Ex.  Com. 

A.  A.  Murray,  ) 

Crea  &  Ewing Attorneys 

B.  F.  Sibley,  M   D         )  ^^^  Examiners 
J.  A.  Aikman,  M.  D.,    i 

Smiths,  Hammer,  &  Co Bankers 

Managers.— Wm.  L.  Hammer,  C.  C 
Burroughs,  Virgil  H.  Park,  E.  A.  Gast- 
man,  A.  P.  Griswold,  Charles  A.  Ewing, 


HISTORY    OF   DEOATUK. 


43 


LIVERY   STABLE. 

A.  W.  Hardy  has  the  best  and  largest 
Livery  and  Feed  Stables  in  Decatur,  and 
has  some  of  the  finest  teams  to  be  found 
in  the  State.  The  stock  is  all  first  class, 
and  patrons  will  not  be  overcharged  for 
hire.  They  have  special  accommoda- 
tions for  ,  farmers,  for  feeding  and  stab- 
ling. 


UNDERTAKER. 

Daniel  Aungst,  undertaker,  and  dealer 
in  coffins,  metalic  burial  cases  and  cask- 
ets. Has  the  best  and  most  exten- 
sive assortment  ever  kept  in  the  city. 
Mr.  Aungst  has  arrangements  for  pre- 
serving a  corpse  natural  for  any  length 
of  time  necessary,  until  day  of  burial, 
without  additional  cost  to  his  patrons. 


CARPETS  AND  WALL  PAPER. 

Messrs.  Abel  &  Lock,  are  the  oldest 
exclusive  carpet,  wall  paper  and  furnish- 
ing house  in  Decatur.  They  have  a  fine 
assortment  of  carpets  of  foreign  and 
American  manufacture,  a  good  line  of 
window  shades  and  fixtures,  and  wall 
paper  of  every  description.  These  gen- 
tlemen thoroughly  understand  their  bu- 
siness, giving  personal  attention  to  the 
same,  and  having  able?  assistants,  war- 
rant all  their  work,  and  are  deservedly 
quite  popular. 


Robert  P.  Lytle,  Wm.  H.  Harris,  Wm. 
Lintner,  George  Priest,  A.  A.  Murray, 
Walter  J.  Taylor,  J.  A.  Aikman,  M.  D., 
Benj.  F.  Sibley,  M.  D. 

CLAIM  AGENT 

C.  H.  Fuller,  Esq.,  is  one  of  the  oldest 
and  most  reliable  U.  S.  military  claim  ' 
agents  in.the  city.  Mr.  Fuller  gives  care- 
ful attention  to  collecting  all  military 
claims,  whether  for  horse  claims,  prize 
money,  bounty,  or  back  pay,  and  makes 
no  charges  uuless  claims  are  allowed. 
He  is  also  Notary  Public,  and  from  his 
long  residence,  and  having  been  extens- 
sively  engaged  in  business,  and  holding 
many  places  of  public  trust,  is  enabled 
to  protect  and  further  the  interests  of 
all  who  do  business  with  him.  Mr.  F. 
is  one  of  the  most  active  and  public 
spirited  citizens  of  Decatur. 

PATENT  SOLICITOR. 

Chas.  P.  Housum,  solicitor  of  patents, 
and  agent  for  the  sale  of  patents,  has 
built  up  quite  a  largej  and  successful  bu- 
siness, and  gives  satisfaction  to  all  who 
are  fortunate  in  securing  his  services. 


DECATUR  INFIRMARY. 

Drs.  M.  &  H.  Brandom,  the  "  Twin 
Brothers,"  have  established  in  this  city 
their  Infirmary  for  treatment  of  all  dis- 
eases relating  to  the  Eye  and  Ear.  It 
has  become  the  resort  of  multitudes  from 
different  parts  of  the  State,  who  seek  re- 
lief for  these  organs,  and  who  almost  in- 
variably are  fully  restored.  Their  treat- 
ment is  considered  superior  to  any  otlier 
known  or  practiced,  and  used  with  per- 
fect safety  in  all  cases.  Some  of  their 
cures  have  been  truly  wonderful,  and  a 
visit  to  their  Infirmary  will  convince  the 
greatest  skeptic  these  statements  are 
real  facts. 


CLOTHING,  FURNISHING  GOODS. 

J.  R.  Race  &Co.,  have  the  largest  es- 
tablishment in  Illinois  outside  of  Chica- 
go, and  offer  equal  inducements  to  any 
in  that  city.  Messrs.  Race  &  Co.  are  ex- 
tensive jobbers  in  jeans,  flannels,  yarns, 
&c.,  having  the  productions  of  several 
large  woolen  establishments,  and  be- 
sides a  very  large  stock  of  ready  made 
clothing  and  furnishing  goods  they  hare 
a  complete  merchant  tailoring  depart- 
ment, under  one  roof  and  in  one  of  the 
finest  business  houses  in  the  city.  The, 
trade  of  this  firm  extends  to  all  parts  of 
the  state  and  is  quite  large  and  constant- 
ly increasing. 


ICE  AND  WOOD  DEALERS. 

Martin  Fortsmeyer,  Esq.,  has  very 
complete  and  extensive  arrangements 
for  supplying  the  city  with  ice  and  wood 
of  the  be>t  quality  and  at  low  rates.  Mr. 
F.  has  resided  here  over  15  years  and 
been  closely  identified  with  the  public 
welfare  most  of  the  time,  is  a  good  rep- 
resensative  of  the  American  working- 
men,  beginning  in  business  here  with  no 
capital  but  stout,  honest  hands  and 
heart,  he  has  amassed  considerable  prop- 
erty and  has  occupied  and  still  holds  sev- 
eral places  of  prominent  public  trust,  and 
enjoys  the  confidence  of  the  people  of 
the  city  and  county. 


HOTELS. 

Priest  House — This  is  one  of  the  oldest 
and  best  hotels  in  the  city.  The  proprie- 
tor, Frank  Priest,  has  kept  the  house  for 
several  years.  It  is  centrally  located  and 
sufficiently  retired  for  comfort  and  con- 
venience of  its  guests,  and  enjoys  a  good 
reputation  among  the  traveling  public 
for  accommodation  and  prices.  A  free 
omnibus  is  run  to  and  from  all  regular 
trains. 


44 


HISTOEY    OF   DECATUIi. 


St.  Nicholas — Laux  Brothers,  propri- 
etors. This  house  is  located  on  the 
southwest  corner  of  the  old  square,  and 
has  recently  been  enlarged  by  additional 
building,  and  is  much  improved  and  has 
first  class  accommodations,  including  a 
large  sample  room,  parlors  and  reading 
rooms.  There  is  also  a  good  livery 
stable  connected  with  the  house,  and  a 
free  omnibus  runs  to  and  from  all  trains. 
The  Laux  Brothers  have  been  brought 
up  to  the  hotel  business  from  boys,  and 
are  enabled,  by  long  experience  and  per- 
sonal attention  to  their  business,  to  meet 


all  the  expectations  and  wants  of  their 
guests.  Their  table  is  always  supyjlied 
with  the  best  of  the  market,  and  served 
in  a  manner  to  suit  the  most  fastidious. 
The  f.leeping  accommodations  are  excel- 
lent, special  attention  being  given  to 
the  cleanliness  of  the  same.  The  hotel 
is  deservedly  one  of  the  most  popular  in 
central  Illinois. 

Hockaday  House,  located  near  the 
new  square,  is  nearly  new  ;  everything 
is  in  good  condition,  and  clean,  and  all 
the  conveniencies  usually  found  in  a 
good  hotel. 


BUSINESS    DIRECTORY, 


ARRANGED  ACCORDING  TO  THEIR  VARIOUS  BUSINESS  PURSUITS. 


t^stract  Makers. 
WARREN  &  DURFEE,  Central  Block. 

Agents,  Insurance. 

CRAWFORD  &  GRI3W0LD,  cor.  Wa- 
ter and  East  Main. 

KINNEY  &  WUENSCH,  Opera  House 
Block. 

TIBBETTS,  SAMUEL,  14  south  side 
New  Square. 

WARREN  &  DURFEE.  Central  Block. 

WOOD  &  MONTGOMERY,  8  Powers' 
Block. 

Agents,  Real  Estate. 

KINNEY  &  WUENSCH,  Smith's  Opera 

House  Block. 
WARREN  &  DURFEE,  Central  Block. 
WOOD    &  MONTGOMERY,  8  Power's 

Block. 

Agent,  U.  S.  Claim. 

FULLER,  C.  H.,  Council  Rooms. 
Artists. 

Moeller,  Rudolph,  24  Main  St.,  up  Stairs. 
LAPHAM,     A.     MILT.,    Opera    House 
Block. 

Attorneys  at  Law. 

BUCKINGHAM,  I.  A.,  6  s  s  New  Square 

up  frtairs. 
BUNN  &  BUNN.  13  E.  Main 
CREA  &  EWING,  Powers'  Block,  East 

Main. 
EDEN  &  ODOR,  N.  Water. 
Einersr>n,  Albert,  12  E.  Main. 
GREER,  SAMUEL  F.,  Court  House. 
IRWlxV,  JAMES  M..  18  Merchant  St. 
JOHNS,  W.  C,  24  E.  Main. 
Jones,  Paul  F.,  5  Powers'  Block. 
Lake,  J.  C,  cor.  State  and  New  Square. 


<  LEE,  THOMAS,  over  J.  Millikin  &  Co's 
I       Bank. 

I  McComas,ChHrle8C.,  over  Smiths,  Ham- 
mer &  Co.'s  Bank. 
i   Murphy,  F.  S.,  24  E.  Main. 
NELSON,    ROBY    &    PEDDECORD,  4 

New  Square,  up  stairs, 
PARK,  EDWIN,  over  J.  Millikin  &  Co.'s 

Bank. 
Parmelee.,  Harlan  P.,  cor.  N.  State  and 

New  Square. 
POST  &  BUCKINGHAM,  23  N.  Water 

Street. 
Smith  &  Sterrett,  22  N.  Water. 

Auction   and  Commission 
Merchants. 

Thompson  &,  Co.,  1  w  s  Old  Square. 
Agricultural  Implements,  etc. 

AIKEN,  C.  W.,  Prairie,  new  square. 
CHAMBERS  &  DURFEE.  16  Main  st. 
HAWORTH  &  SONS,  n    w    cor.    Cerro 

Gordo  and  Morgan  sts. 
MURRAY  &  PARK,  21  Main  st. 

Bakers  and  Cojvfectioners. 

Bailey,  A.  19  Main  st. 
Miller,  C.  No.  8  Water  st. 

Bankers. 

MILLIKIN.  J.,  &  Co.,  No.  11  Main  st. 
Peddecord  &  Burrows,  4  New  Square. 
Smiths,  Hammer  &  Co.,    cor.   N.  Water 
and  New  Square. 

Barbers. 

Ansback,  Gus.,  16  New  Square. 
Fell,  Louis,  8  Merchant  st. 
Jacobs,  Cbas.,  under  Piicst's  Hotel. 
Stewart  &  Rogan,  8  E.  Mniu. 
Young  is.  Norman,  6  N.  Water. 


46 


BUSINESS    DIRECTOKY    OF    DECATUK. 


Billiard  Saloons. 

CAIN  &  ANDREWS,  St.  Nicholas  Hotel. 
MILLS,  E.  H.,  7  n  w  cor.  Old  Square. 
PRIEST'S  HOTEL,  Priest's  block. 

Bill  Foster. 

FRANK  HAINES,  Fish  &  Foster's  mu- 
sic store. 

Blachs^7^iths. 

Kit  Karson  &  Kramer,  W.  Main,  near 
church. 

GAHMAN  &  WICKS,  cor.  N.  Water  and 
Cerro  Gordo  sts. 

Hamsher  &  Son,  24  Mason  st. 

Thomas  Hughes,  cor.  Prairie  and  Broad- 
way. 

Nichols  &  Foose,  43  E.   Main. 

Bottler  of  Ale  and  Beer. 

KUNZ,  FRED.,  cor.  Main  and  Jackson. 

Boots  and  Shoes. 

Adams,  E.  G.,  16  Merchant  sts. 
Busher,  W.  F.,  &  Co.,  15  Main  st. 
Eger,  L.,  17  Main  st. 
Ham^buger,  G.,  &  Co.,   Fenton's  block, 

N.  Water  st. 
Powers,  Ferris  &  Co.,  18  E.  Main. 
Rugg  &  Moore,  10  Main  st. 
Geo.  Snelser,  38  E.  Main  st. 
SMELSLEY  &  Co.,  36  Main  st. 
WESSELLS,  GEO.  F.,  15  N.  Water  st. 

Books  and  Stationery. 

AUin  &  Hostkler,  9  E.  Main  st. 
ESPY,  D.,  &  Ccv,  n  E.  Main  st. 
BRAMBLE,    O.,     &   BRO.,     Postofflce 

building. 
WILSON,  W.  E.,n  w  cor.   E.  Main  and 

Water  sts. 

Brewery. 

Harpstrite  &  Schladerman,  s  e  city  lim- 
its. 
Weber,  Nicholas,  on  I.  C.  R.  R.,  S. 

Brick  Yards. 

Howenstein,  John,  n  of  city  limits. 
Myers  <to  Brant,  S.    Broadway  cor.   Ma- 
lone  St. 
Whitmer,  H.  W.  res.  S.  Broadway. 

Butchers. 

BLENZ  &  D ANZEISER,  3  Old  Square. 
Dreshach,  A.  J.,  E.  Eldorado,  n  Front  . 
IMBODEN,  J.,  &Co.,   cor.  S.  Main  and 

Wood  sts. 
Weitsel  &  Adams,  cor.  Cerro  Gordo  and 

Broadway. 


Carpenters. 

Lehman,  John  A  ,  87  N.  Water. 

Lyon,  G.  S.,  N.  Eldorado  and   Pine  sts. 

Martin  ifc  Williams,   Jefferson    between 

Churchand  Union  sis.  , 

Mills  &  Harry,  69  N.  Water. 
Shockley,  D.  C,  s  e  cor.   N.  Water  and 

Cerro  Gordo  sts. 


Carriage   Makers. 

GAHMAN  &  WICKS,. cor.  N.  Water  and 

Cerro  Gorda  sts. 
Taylor  &  Bradley,  W.  Main  near  Church 

sts. 

Carpets,  Etc. 

Abel  &  Locke,  34  E.  Main  st. 
QUINLAN,  W.  J.,  &  BRO.,  34  E.  Main. 


Cigars  and.  Tobacco. 

KEPLER,  A.,  s  e  cor.  Old  Square. 
Michl  Joseph,  &  Co.,  12  N.  Water  st. 
Osmers,  John,  29  N.  Water  st. 
Young  &  Norman,  6  N.  Water  st. 

Clothing. 

BARNEY,  J.  S.,  27  N.  Water  st. 
Ehrman,  I.  W.,  22  E.  Main  st. 
FENTON,  J.  L.,  &  Co.,  23  N.  Water  st. 
RACE,  J.  R..  &  Co.,  17  N.  Water  st. 
SMALLWOOD  &  HUDSON,  28  E.  Main 

St. 

Stine,  B.,  Central  block.  Old  Square 
Zekind,  A.  M.,  &  Co.,  32  E.  Main  st. 


Coimnission  Merchants. 

Bills  &  Hardy,  Old  Revere  House  build- 
ing. 

Coal  Dealers. 

GAHMAN  &  WICKS,    cor.    Water  and 

Cerro  Gordo  sts. 
Western  Coal  Co.,  N.  Franklin  and  R.  R. 

crossing. 

Confectioners. 

BRAMBLE,  O.,  &  BKO.,  P.  O.  Building. 
Casisell,  John,  Prairie  and  N.  Water  sts. 
HILL,  A.  F.,  26  Merchant  st 
Smith,  L.  J.,  62  Main  st. 

Coopers. 

Litterer,  Martin  D.,  Morgan  st  and  T.  W^ 

it  W.  R.  R. 
Pitcher,  J.  L.,  Mason  ste  of  Old  Custom 

Mills. 
Rusk  <fcBro.,  s  of  Priest's  Mill. 


BUSINESS  DIBECTORT    OF    DECATUE. 


47 


CrocJcei^,  Cliina,  Glassivnre, 

CLARK,  J.  S.,  &  Co.,  4  N.  Water. 

Crockery  and  Tile  Factory. 

Traver.  William,  W.  Main  bet.  College 
and  Pine. 

Decatur  Gas  Light  ^  Coke  Co. 

Ewing,  F.  N.,  President ;  J.  K.  Warren, 
secretary  and  treasurer.  Executive 
committee — F.  N.  Ewing,  L.  Burrows, 
J.  K.  Warren.  Superintendent,  J.  W. 
Britman,  office  n.  side  New  Square, 
No.  5. 

Dentists. 

Cochrane,  A.,  N.  Water  st.,w  of  New 
Square 

CORMAN,  O.  F.,  cor.  Main  and  Mer- 
chant sts. 

DAWKIN8,  R.  C,  over  Smiths,  Hammer 
6l  Co.'s  bank. 

Lukens,  E.,  over  Stoner's  drug  store. 

SHARTEL,  G.  T.,  cor.  E.  xMain  and  Mer- 
chant sts. 

Druggists. 

CHENOWETH,  C,  30  xMerchant  st. 
Gardiner,  J.  M.,  12  Main  st. 
HAND,  J.  S.,  &  Co.,  19  N.  Water  st. 
Hildebrandt,  Theo.,  6  New  Square. 
HUBBARD   &  SVVEARINGER,  cor.  E. 

Main  and  N.  Water  sts. 
Roberts  <t  Armstrong,  8  E.  Main  st. 
SIGNER,  A.  J.,  14  south   side   of  New 

Square. 

Dry  Goods. 

Bruce,  G.  M.,  1.3  N.  Water  st. 

FORRESTER,  JAMES,  &  Co.,  8  Mer- 
chant st. 

Hays  &  Bruce,  2.5  N.  Water  st. 

Linn  &  Scruggs,  2  and  4  Merchant  st. 

LUDDEN,  S.  D.,  &Co.,  13  E.  Main  st. 

RACE,  J.  R.  &Co.,  17  N.  Water  st. 

Roach  &  McReynolds,  cor.  N.  State  and 
New  Square. 

Ruth,  A  ,  cfc  Co.,  10  Merchant  st. 

Engine  Builders. 

BURROUGHS  &  CO.,  William  and  Mor- 
gan. 

Express  Companies. 

AMERICAN,  Main  and  Old  Square. 
UNITED  STATES,  Main  and  Old  Square. 

Fire  Kijvdler. 

KING,  J.  B.,  manufacturer,  25  W.  Eldo- 
rado. 


Flouring  Mills. 

ILLINOIS  CENTRAL,  Geo.  Priest,  cor. 

Water  and  Broadway. 
McDonald,  J.,  near  R.  R.  crossing. 
Shellabarger  Mills,  D.  S.  Shellabarger  & 

Co.,  N.  Water  and  T.  W.  &  W.  R.  R. 
St.  Clair  MHls,  J.   M.   Rainey  &  Co.,  N. 

T.  W.  &  W.  R.  R.  and  Water. 

Foundry. 

CENTRAL  IRON  WORKS,  William  and 
Morgan. 

Furnishing  Goods. 
KEELER,  S.  T.,  24  Merchant. 

Furniture. 

BUTZIN,  FREDERICK,  52  E.  Main. 
Drake  &  Bro.,  6  N.    Water   and    R     R. 

crossing. 
LINTNER,  WM.  &  CO  ,  factory  corner 

Morgan  and   William,  salesroom  8  s  s 

New  Square. 

Gas  Fitting. 

BUTMAN,  J.  W.,  5  n  s  New  Square. 

Grocei's. 

Adderly  Geo.,  N.  Water  and  R.  R.  cross- 
ing. 

Baily,  B.  C,  N.  Broadway  and  Mason. 

Baker  &  Jack,  cor.  Main  and  Water. 

Barnett,  D.  M.,  5ns  New  Square. 

CLEAVELAND,  M.  A.,  22  Merchant  st. 

Gill,  L.  M.  &  Co.,  10  New  Square. 

Henry,  E.  &  Co.,  N.  Broadway,  bet.  El- 
dorado and  Cerro  Gordo. 

Imboden,  A.  H.,  21  S.  Main. 

LEFFINGWELL,  L.  B   C,  9  S.  Main. 

Leiby,  Jacob  &  Son,  14  E.  Main. 

Luthen,  Joseph,  36  Morgan. 

Lewis,  H.  B.  &  Bro.,  cor.  Morgan  and 
Cerro  Gordo. 

LYON,  H.,  28  Merchant  st. 

McEvoy,  J.,  opp.  R.  R  Depot. 

McRoberts,  John,  s.  e  cor.  Square  and  8 
N.  Franklin. 

Milligan  &  Skelley,  23  N.  Franklin. 

Newell  &  Hammer,  11  N.  Water. 

Niedermeyer  &  Corson,  21  N.  Water. 

Reeme,  Wm.  H.,  41  N.  Water. 

Reployle  &  Co.,  Central  Block,  Old 
Square. 

W.  S.  Roby,  N.  Water  nr.  R.  R.  crossing. 

Smith,  S.  D.,  2  Priest's  Block. 

SHUPP,  SAMUEL,  17  N.  Main  st. 
STRAILY,  S.  M.,  20  Main  st. 
Skelley,  Frank,  30  W.  Eldorado  st. 
ULLRICH,  J   &  Co.,  6  Merchant  st. 
Williams,  John    R.,   res.   N.   Main    and 
Green. 


48 


BUSINESS  DIRECTOKY    OF   DECATUR. 


Grain  Dealer. 

HAWORTH,  M.,  n  w  cor.  Cerro  Gordo 
and  Morgan. 

Gun  Smith. 

Mueller,  H.,  36  E.  Main  6t. 

Hall. 
Marble,  J.  R.  Race  &  Co.,  17  N.  Water. 

Hardware,  8fc. 

CL()S8&  GRISWOLD,  30  Main  st. 
CROCKER,  RUFUS  &  Co.,  9  N.   Water. 
Liddl«,  R.,  8  e  cor.  New  Square. 
MOREHOUSE  &  WELLS,   7  E.  Main  st. 
Taylor,  F.  J.,  9  N.  Water  st. 

Hats  and  Caps. 

FENTON,  J.  L.,  &  Co.,  23  N.  Water  st. 
KEELER,  S.  T.,  21  Merchant  st. 
RACE,  J.  R..  &  Co..  17  N.  Water  st. 
SMALL  WOOD  &  HUDSON,  28  E.  Main 

St. 

Stine,  B.,  Central  block.  Old  Square. 
Zekind,  A.  M.,  &  Co.,  32  E.  Main  st. 

Hides,  Tallow,  Rags,  ^-c. 

STUTSMAN,  J.,  2  E.  Main. 

Hotels. 

Franklin  House,  Colorado  and  Broad- 
way. 

Fredtrick  Harris,  Morgan  and  E.  El- 
dorado. 

HOCKADAT  HOUSE,  s  e  cor.  Merchant 
and  E.  Prairie  sts. 

McEVOr,  JOHN,  Front  and  E.  Cerro 
Gordo. 

MORONY.  J.  J.,  Front  bet.  E.  Cerro  Gor- 
do and  E.  Eldorado. 

National  Hotel,  opp.  R.  R.  Depot. 

Pennsylvania  House,  n.  w  cor.  Water 
and  E.  Main. 

Planter's  House,  E.  Eldorado  and  Front. 

PRIEST  HOTEL,  n  w  cor.  Old  Square 
and  N.  Main. 

St.  Charles  Hotel,  E.  North  and  Jackson. 

Sherman  House,  E.  William  st. 

ST.  NICHOLAS  HOTEL,  s  w  cor.  Main 
and  Old  Square. 

Union  House,  E.  Main  bet.  Jackson  and 
Franklin. 

House  Furnisfiin^  Goods. 

Liddle,  R.,  22  and  24  New  Square. 

Hubs,  Spokes,  Felloes,  8fc. 
CLOSE  &  GRISWOLD,  30  E.  Main. 


Ice  and  Wood. 

FORTSMEYER,     MARTIN,    s    w    cor. 
W.  Main  and  Church. 

Iron  Works. 

CENTRAL  IRON  W' ORKS.  cor.  William 
and  Morgan. 

Jewelry. 

BIRELT  &  ABBOTT,  9  E.  Main. 
BKAxMBLE,  O.,  &BRO..  P.  O.   building. 
Lillestoii,  S.  D.,  17  E.  Main. 
WILSON,  W.  E.,  n  w  cor.  E.   Main  and 
N.  Water. 

Job  Printers. 

ADDIS,  W.  H.,  Opera  House  block. 
MOSSER  &  HAMSHER,   cor.    Mam  and 

Water. 
SHOAFF    &    MILLER,    Opera     House 

block. 

Justices  of  the  Peace. 

Goodman,  George,  7  Powers  block. 
HATCH,  M   K.,  Council   Rooms,  cor.  E. 

Main  and  Water. 
Steel,  Samuel,  over  Smiths,    Hammer  & 

Co.'s  bank. 

Knitting  Machine. 

LAMB    KNITTING    MACHINE,  10  N. 
Water. 

Ladies'  Dress  Trimmings. 
Maxwell,  W.  M.,  10  N.  Water. 

Lamps,  Oils,  <^c. 

WALLACE,  G.,  Central  Block. 

Livery  and  Sale  Stables. 

CALDWELL  BROS.,  Main,   rear  of  St. 

Nicholas  Hotel. 
HARDY,  A.  W.,  s   e   cor.  New   Square 

and  N.  Franklin. 
Mason  &  Culp,  6  Main. 


Linseed  Oil  Manufacturers. 

Sawyer,  W    &   B.,   cor.  E.    Main  and  S. 
Broadway. 

Lumber  Yards. 

Elwood  &  Co.,  Eldorado  and  I.  C.  R.  R. 

crossintj. 
Foster,  H.  E.,  34  Mason. 
Stare  &  Bro.,  cor.  Franklin  and  Cerro 

Gordo. 


BUSINESS  DIKECTORY    OF    DECATUE. 


49 


Swingley,  S.  K.,  N.  Water  and  R.  R. 
cro66ing. 

Machinists. 

BURROUGHS  &  Co.,  cor.  William  and 
Morgan . 

Marble  Works. 

BARRETT,  W.  M.,  &  CO.,  cor.  N.  Main 
and  Prairie. 

CITY  MARBLE  WORKS,  cor.  E.  Main 
and  Franklin. 

Peniwell,  Grindol  &  Co.,  cor.  E.  Main 
and  Franklin. 

STROHM  &  WAGGONER,  cor.  N.  Wa- 
ter and  New  Square, 

City  Marshal. 
HAWORTH,  JOHN,  Council  Rooms. 

Deputy  City  Marshal. 
MORONY,  ANTHONY,  Council  Rooms. 

Meat  Markets. 

EPPLER,  S.  G  ,  19  N.  Main. 
Whitsel  &  Adams,    s    w  cor.  Broadway 
and  Cerro  Gordo. 

Millineivj. 

Gehrmann.  Tbeo.  A.,  13  Merchant. 
HICKMAN,  MRS.  D.   C,   Opera   House 

block. 
MILLER,  MISS  ANNIE,  20  Merchant. 
Steward,  Mrs.  C,  30  N.  Water. 
Waterman  &  Muhleman,    Misses,    cor. 

E.  Main  and  Merchant. 


Milk  Dealers. 

Maffit  D.  A. 

Taylor,  Benj.  F.,  Fair  Grounds. 

Jfews  Dealers. 

BRAMBLE,  O.,  &  BRO.,  P.  O.  building. 
Crissey,  W.  E.,  9  E.  Main. 
Dogget,  R.,  Old  P.  O. 
ESPY,  D.,  &  CO.,   17  E.  Main. 
WILSON,  W.  E.,  n  w   cor.  E.  Main  and 
N.  Water. 

Jfewspapers. 

DAILY   AND  WEEKLY  DEMOCRAT, 

Opera  House  Block. 
DECATUR  GAZETTE  AND  CHRONI 

CLE,  14  E.  Main. 
DECATUR   WEEKLY    REPUBLICAN, 

n  e  cor.  Court  House  Block. 


ILLINOIS  VOLKSBLATT,  14  Main. 
MAGNET,  Opera  House  Block. 

Jfotaries  Public. 

FULLER,  C.  H.,  Council  Rooms. 
WUENSCH,    ALFRED,    Opera    House 
Block. 

JVotions  and  Varieties. 

Clark.  E.  M.,  N.  Water  and  E.  Prairie. 
Reeme,  J.  W.,  32  Merchant  st. 

Occulists  and  Aurists, 

BRANDOM,  M.  &  H.,  19  N.  Water,  np 
stairs. 

Paint  Shop. 
Gilbert,  J.  E.,  26  Merchant  st. 

Paints,  Oils,  <^-c. 

CLOSE  &  GRISWOLD,  30  E.  Main. 

Patent  Solicitor. 
H0U3UM,  C.  P.,  11  Power's  Block. 

Photographers. 

Barnwell,  E.  A., 27  N.  Water,  up  stairs. 
BUTLER,  T.  H.,  over  Smiths,  Hammer 

&  Co.'s  Bank. 
LAPHAM,  A.  MILT.,  1.5  E.  Main  st. 

Photographers. 

PITNER,  W.  C,  17  N.  Water,  up  stairs. 
Laforgee,  Marion,  bds  Hockaday  House. 
Scibird,  H.  W.,  12  E.  Main. 

Physicians. 

Allison,  B.  A.,  Central  Block. 

Brown  &  Parker,  cor.  Main   and  Water. 

CHENOWETH,  C,  30  Merchant. 

Durr,  — ,  cor.  Franklin  and  N.  Water. 

Ho.-tetler,  J.  H.,  10  N.    Water,  2d  floor. 

HOSTETLER,  W.  B.,    8  E.   Main,  over 
Roberts  and  Armstrong's  drugstore. 

May,  F.,  ne  cor.  William  and  Franklin. 

McBride,  S.,  6  New  Square,  up  stairs. 

McMillin,  G.  W.,  8  E.  Main. 

Moore  &  Barnes,  cor.    E.    Main  and  N. 
Water. 

Randall,  J.  N..  12  E.  Main. 

ROUTH,  JAMES  W.,  22  Merchant. 

SIBLEY,  B.  F.,  6  Council  Building. 

STONER,  A.  J.,  14  S.  Side  New  Square. 

Wilson,  W.  E.,  n  w  cor.  E.  Main  and  Wa- 
ter. 

Pianos  and  Organs. 
Hargis,  G.  F.,  over  Espy  &  Co.'s  store. 


50 


BUSINESS  DIRECTOKY    OF    DECATUR. 


Murphy,  R.  H.,  over  Wilson's  store. 
Fish  &  Foster,  10  N.  Water. 

Pictures,  FrctTnes,  ^'C. 

ESPY.  D.,  &  Co.,  17  E.  Main. 
LAPHAM,  A.  MILT,  Oper  House  Block. 

Vleasure  Garden. 

BRAMBLE'  S  PLEASURE  GARDEN,  S. 
E.  Church  st. 

Produce,  ^"C. 

Holden,  Charles  L.,  28  N.  Water. 

Pinnp  Factojn/. 
Lintner,  Wm.,  E.  William  opp.  Morgan. 


Restaurants. 

HILL,  A.  F.,  26  Merchant. 
MILLS,  E.  H.,  7  cor.  Old  Square. 

Revolution  Dollar  Store. 
KIRKMAN  &  Co.,  18  Merchant. 

Rolling  Mill. 
Harris,  W.  H.,  Supt,,  eof  R.  R.  Depot. 

Saddles,  Harness,  ^'C. 


Harasher,  D.,  Central  Block. 
HAMSHER,    JOHN,    18    S.    side   New 

Square, 
Starr,    J.    G.,    &    Son,    8  W.  side   Old 

Square. 

Saloons. 


Phillip  Honecker,  res.  93  S.  Broadway. 

CAIN  &  ANDREWS,  St.  Nicholas  Ho- 
tel. 

Concordia  Saloon,  S.  Main  nr  Wood. 

CRYSTAL  PALCE,4  E.  Main. 

DALEY,  JAMES,  Front  and  E.  Cerro 
Gordo. 

Dunrgan,  Michael,  Front  nr  Eldorado. 

Exchange,  (iE.  Main. 

Farner,  Louis,  8  N.  Franklin. 

HACKETT  &  BARR,  Opera  House 
Block. 

Hubbard  &  Bro.,  P.  O.  Building. 

Carroll,  Michael,  n  e  cor.  Eldorado  and 
Broadway. 


Prairie,  bet.  Merchant  and  N.  Water. 
Reid,  Wm.  Front,  nr  Cerro  Gordo. 
Wiefel,   Charles,  cor.  S.   Water  andE. 
Main. 

Sash  and  Blind  Factories. 

Elwood  D.,  &  Co.,   Eldorado   and  I.  C. 

R.  R. 
Stare   &  Bro.,   cor.   Cerro  Gordo    and 

Franklin. 

Sewing  Machines. 

Grover  &  Baker,  Miss  A  Miller. 
SINGER,  10  N.  Water. 
Espy,  D.,  &  Co.,  Agts.,  17  E.  Main. 
Wheeler  &  Wilson,  Abel  &  Locke,  Wa- 
ter and  Main. 

ShoejnaJcers. 

McClure,  Festus,  w.  side  N.  Water  bet. 

Cerro  Gordo  and  Mason. 
Winholtz,  Wm.,  .33  Morgan. 

Skating  Rinh. 
BRAMBLE'S,  S.   E.  Church. 

Soda  Manufacturer. 

KUNZ,  FRED.,  cor.  E.  Main  and  Jack- 
son. 

Stoves,  Tinware,  <^c. 

Carter,  C.  A.,  W.  side  Old  Square  nr.  W. 

Main. 
CLOSE  &  GRISWOLD,  30  E.  Main. 
CROCKER,  RUFUSC,  9  N.  Water. 
MOREHOUSE  &  WELLS,  7  E.  Main. 


Merchant  Tailors. 

BARNEY,  J.  S.,  27  N.  Water. 
Bachniaii,  Geo.,  E.  Main  nr  Franklin. 
RACE,  J.  R.,  &  Co.,  17  N.  Water. 
SMALLWOOD  &  HUDSON,  28 E.  Main. 

Telegraph  Companies. 

GRE.\T  WESTERN,  15  E.  Main. 
Western  Union,  34  E.  Main,  up  stairs. 

Toys,  JVotiojis,  and  Fancy 
Goods. 

ESPY,  D.,  &Co.,  17  E.  Main. 

Trimmings,   Paper  Patterns, 
^c. 

Maxwell,  Wm.  M.,  10  N.  Water. 


t^-:V: 


BUSINESS    DIKECTOBT    OF    DECATUE. 


61 


Trunks,  Valises,  ^o. 
FENTON,  J.  L.,  &  Co.,  23  N.  Water. 

Undertahers. 

AUNGST,  DANIEL,  6  s  side  Old  Square. 
BUTZIN,  FRED.,  52  E.  Main. 
Givler,  M.  Y.,  n  e  cor.  Old  Square. 
Scudder,  W.  W.,  5  Old  Square. 

Vegetables,  Fruits,  Meats, 
Game,  <^c. 

BLOCK,  S.,  3  Opera  House  Block. 

Vinegar  Factory. 
Smick,  E.  A.,  S.  Main. 

Wagon  Makers. 

Athen,  Joseph,  W.  Main  nr  Church. 
Cramer  &  McClelland,  37  E.  Main. 
GAHMAN  &  WICKS,  cor.  N.  Water  and 

Cerro  Gordo. 
HAMSHER  &  SON,  34  Mason. 


HEBENSTREIT,  A.,  Jackson. 

Wall  Paper. 

Abel  &  Locke,  34  E.  Main. 
ESPY,  D.,  &  CO.,  17  E.  Main. 

Wines,  Liquors,  ^c. 

BRENNEMAN,  D.  W.,  20  and  23  aside 

City  Park. 
CASSELL,  BERRY  H.,  26  E.  Main. 
Dodson,  Benj.  F.,  14  Merchant. 
HACKETT  &    BARR,     Opera    House 

Block. 
RICHARDS,  B.  B.,  11  Main. 

Woolen  Goods. 

BOYD,  HAsKELL  &  CO.,   cor.  Mason 
and  Broadway. 

Woolen  Mill. 

DECATUR  WOOLEN  MILL,  cor.   Ma- 
son and  Broadway. 


UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS-URBANA 

977.358W63  C001 

HISTORY  OF  DECATUR,  ILLINOIS,  ITS  RESOUR 


3  01 


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